,Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has thrown his weight behind Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s presidential ambitions, backing his newly unveiled political vehicle as the opposition positions itself for the 2027 General Election.
Babu was among political leaders who attended the unveiling of The Equitable Party (TEP) in Nairobi, where Sifuna formally presented the party as a vehicle for his political ambitions.
In a statement following the event, Babu described the occasion as an important moment for Kenya’s multiparty democracy and pledged his support for Sifuna’s presidential journey.
“Today was a truly special day for Kenya and multiparty democracy as we joined my brother H.E. Edwin Sifuna for the unveiling of THE EQUITABLE PARTY (TEP),” Babu said.
The Embakasi East legislator said he supported Sifuna’s bid and expressed confidence in his ability to seek the presidency.
“We fully support our brother as he begins his journey to become the President of Kenya. All the best, my brother. Nitasimama na wewe,” he added.
Babu’s endorsement comes as opposition figures continue to explore political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections, with Sifuna emerging as one of the leaders seeking to build a national political platform.
The unveiling of TEP brought together several politicians associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka.
Babu later made another statement reflecting on the opposition’s previous electoral defeat and the need for greater unity ahead of the next presidential contest.
“Baba was supposed to be the President, but we lost the election because of some small excitement,” he said, in an apparent reference to Azimio leader Raila Odinga’s defeat in the 2022 presidential election.
He warned that opposition leaders and their supporters could face serious consequences if they failed to secure victory in 2027.
“We MUST win the 2027 election, or else we will all be destroyed,” Babu said.
His remarks underscore the growing focus among opposition politicians on avoiding divisions that could weaken their chances in the next election.
Sifuna’s move to take over TEP comes after efforts to establish the Linda Mwananchi Movement as a political party faced legal and registration hurdles. The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal recently ordered the Registrar of Political Parties to reserve the Linda Mwananchi name.
The plan is for TEP to eventually be rebranded as Linda Mwananchi, although the name reservation does not amount to registration of a new political party.
Sifuna’s political allies are now expected to focus on expanding the party’s national presence as preparations for the 2027 election intensify.