Political analyst David Makali has weighed in on Embakasi East MP Babu Owino’s decision to devote more attention to his Nairobi gubernatorial ambitions while continuing to support the Linda Mwananchi political movement.
Makali acknowledged Babu’s contribution to the movement, saying the lawmaker had played a significant role in taking what he described as the ODM rebellion, popularly referred to as Linda Mwananchi, to the public.
In a statement, Makali said Babu had worked tirelessly to popularise the political initiative and had gained admiration for his willingness to participate in its activities.
> “Truth be told, @HEBabuOwino has done his best. Has worked tirelessly so take the ODM rebellion aka Linda Mwananchi to the people. Has won admirers for his courage,” Makali said.
His remarks came shortly after Babu explained why he would not be attending every Linda Mwananchi rally as he had done previously.
Babu said he remained supportive of the movement but needed to shift some of his attention to Nairobi, where he is seeking to succeed Governor Johnson Sakaja in the 2027 elections.
The Embakasi East MP has also dismissed suggestions that his gubernatorial ambitions have put him at odds with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Babu said the two were pursuing different political positions and that he continued to support Sifuna’s presidential ambitions.
Makali argued that Babu should similarly be given room to pursue his own political objectives, particularly as he prepares for a highly competitive Nairobi governor contest.
> “But he has to be allowed to pursue his agenda too, and navigate the demographic dynamics of Nairobi's Governor race,” Makali added.
The analyst's comments highlight the balancing act facing Babu as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Nairobi is Kenya’s most populous county and has a politically diverse electorate spread across 85 wards. Candidates seeking the governor’s position will therefore have to build support across different communities, constituencies and socio-economic groups.
Babu has sought to present his record in Embakasi East as part of his case for leading Nairobi. He has pointed to development projects in the constituency while urging residents to assess his performance before judging his suitability for the county's top elective position.
His reduced presence at some Linda Mwananchi activities could therefore allow him to spend more time building his own political network across Nairobi while maintaining his association with the movement.
Makali’s remarks also suggest that Babu’s role in Linda Mwananchi and his gubernatorial ambitions do not necessarily have to be treated as competing political interests.
As the 2027 contest approaches, Babu will have to balance his participation in the wider opposition political activities with the demands of campaigning for the Nairobi governor position.