‘Back Us 100% or Support Ruto’: Babu Owino Warns Linda Mwananchi Members

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has warned members of the Linda Mwananchi movement against supporting rival political camps, saying the group must remain united ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking at a rally in Meru County on 30 August, Owino said members who support the movement must fully back its political agenda. He urged those unwilling to do so to openly support President William Ruto instead.

“If you want to support us, do it 100 percent, otherwise, go support President Ruto,” Babu said, rejecting what he described as “double loyalty”.

Babu also declared his support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who is seeking the presidency in 2027. He said their long association in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) had strengthened their relationship and pledged to back Sifuna fully.

“No one in Linda Mwananchi knows him more than I. We have endured a lot together in ODM until where we are today. I am with him 100 percent,” he said.

His remarks came after Siaya Senator James Orengo announced that he would also seek the presidency in 2027. Orengo, a veteran opposition politician with longstanding links to the Odinga political tradition, has said his experience and political background give him a basis to pursue the presidency.

Babu also criticised bloggers who, he said, support both the government and opposition while presenting themselves as independent political voices. He called on political commentators to make their positions clear.

“You cannot be a government blogger, and then the opposition blogger, you must take a stand,” he said.