Embakasi East parliamentary aspirant Vincent Opar has publicly dismissed claims by sitting MP Babu Owino that he is acting as a mole for Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo in the Linda Mwananchi political group.
The accusation surfaced following Opar’s appearance at a recent Linda Mwananchi rally, where social media and political discussions suggested government alignment.
In a detailed response issued on Monday, Opar termed the allegations as misinformed and disconnected from his political values.
“There are things you can accuse us of and then there are those you can’t,” he said, emphasising his commitment to peace and cohesion within the community.
Opar, who is vying for the seat currently held by Owino under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) banner, said his focus remains on unity rather than factional disputes or internal party wars.
He stated that he has “never called my community and brothers to fight among themselves,” framing his message around collaboration and generational change.
Addressing the claim linking him to PS Raymond Omollo’s influence, Opar said, “Babu Owino called — whoever gave him information about my support for Raymond Omollo misled him.”
He maintained that he does not understand the root of internal differences, and that “I’ll never get into things that don’t concern me.”
Opar said he supports all leaders regardless of their regional or personal ties, arguing that such differences “add nothing to my bid for Embakasi East Constituency and the people I intend to represent in parliament.”
Opar also clarified his relationship with Linda Mwananchi. He said that, unlike some contenders, he does not regularly attend the group’s meetings.
“I only join the church or public rallies and advance the voice of the young and generational change in leadership. Only elected leaders in that faction meet,” he stated, contradicting narratives that link his political strategy to the faction’s internal dynamics.
The aspirant stressed that he and Owino are members of the same party and that infighting contradicts the unity the late ODM leader Raila Odinga sought to build.
“We are ALL members of the ODM Party and fighting for the spirit of the same party. Baba never taught us to fight among ourselves.”
Turning to his campaign strategy, Opar appealed to voters to focus on grassroots engagement rather than endorsements.
“I consider myself the weakest candidate in this race; I should be the least of your worries,” he said, adding that he has not sought support from party hierarchies including Dr. Oburu Odinga or the sitting MP.
“I first went to the people and I trust the people will give the best advice required,” Opar said, urging his supporters to reject rumours. “Embakasi East remains my main priority for now. With your support, we will win together and rejoice together.”
His comments frame a contest that, he insists, should be grounded in dialogue and work on the ground, not personal attacks or alleged allegiances to national officials.