Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has announced that he will not attend all upcoming nationwide rallies organized by the Linda Mwananchi movement, choosing instead to focus his efforts on securing the Nairobi County governorship.
Speaking on his adjusted political strategy, the outspoken lawmaker clarified that while he remains committed to the broad objectives of the Linda Mwananchi initiative—a political movement comprising key opposition figures—his immediate priority has shifted toward ground mobilization within the capital city.
“I will attend some of the rallies, and I may not attend some because I want to give maximum focus to Nairobi County,” Owino stated, explaining his absence from select regional events.
The decision comes amid growing speculation regarding potential friction within the movement, particularly following instances where his absence at countrywide tours—such as rallies in Western Kenya—forced fellow coalition leaders to address eager crowds demanding his presence. Owino dismissed reports of internal division, maintaining that the adjustments are purely tactical to ensure he consolidates his constituency and broader Nairobi voter base ahead of the next general election.
Owino, who has been among the most vocal critics of the current administration alongside leaders like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo, reiterated that balancing national political engagements with local grassroot campaigning in Nairobi necessitates scaling back his travel itinerary across the counties.
Political observers view the move as a clear signal that Owino is intensifying his campaign machinery for the city’s top seat, opting to prioritize urban voter engagement over nationwide coalition tours.
