Babu Owino Hints at Exit from ODM and Eyes Nairobi Governor Seat in 2027 Political Shake-Up

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has indicated that he may be preparing to leave the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), as political tensions and realignments continue to build ahead of the 2027 General Election in Kenya.

Speaking during an interview on NTV Kenya on Monday, May 4, Babu gave strong hints that his political future may no longer be tied to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), the party that first propelled him into national politics and Parliament.

He suggested that major changes are underway within his political camp known as the Linda Mwananchi faction, which is reportedly considering forming a new political party to compete in upcoming elections.

New Political Party in the Works

According to Babu Owino, the Linda Mwananchi movement is not just a casual political group but a structured team working on a long-term strategy that could include launching a fully registered political party.

He explained that in politics, a party is simply a “vehicle” used to reach leadership positions, implying that what matters most is the agenda and not necessarily staying within one political structure.

Babu strongly hinted that plans for a new party are already at an advanced stage, signaling a possible official break from ODM in the near future.

Growing Divisions Inside ODM

His remarks come at a time when ODM is experiencing internal disagreements and shifting alliances.

The party is currently facing a leadership transition period following the death of its long-time leader Raila Odinga, a figure who has been central to Kenya’s opposition politics for many years.

After Raila’s passing, leadership was taken over by his brother Oburu Oginga, a move that has not been warmly received by all members within the party.

One faction within ODM is reportedly leaning toward a working relationship with President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration.

However, Babu Owino’s camp, which includes leaders such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo, has strongly opposed any cooperation with the government.

This disagreement has deepened divisions within the party, with competing visions emerging on the direction ODM should take moving forward.

“ODM Does Not Exist as I Knew It” – Babu’s Strong Statement

Babu Owino did not hold back in his criticism of the current state of ODM. He claimed that the party has changed significantly from what it used to be during its earlier years.

In his words, he suggested that the ODM he once knew no longer exists in its original form, comparing the current situation to something completely different from its founding identity.

He further emphasized that internal disagreements and leadership changes have created confusion within the party structure, making it difficult for some members to remain aligned.

Despite this, he made it clear that he is not planning to run as an independent candidate in the future, instead preferring to work within a structured political party—possibly a new one.

“After Baba, It Is Babu” – His Political Ambitions

Babu also spoke openly about his long-term political journey and ambitions. He referred to Raila Odinga as his last major political mentor, often calling him “Baba,” a nickname widely used by his supporters.

He stated that the next phase of his career is to become a leader in his own right, shifting from being a follower to becoming a “boss who serves the people.”

He also expressed confidence in his political direction, saying that his faction believes strongly in building leadership from the grassroots and preparing for future national leadership roles.

Nairobi Governor Bid in 2027 and Presidential Ambitions

Looking ahead, Babu Owino confirmed that he intends to contest for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 elections. He believes this position would allow him to implement his vision for the city and strengthen his leadership base.

He also revealed broader ambitions beyond Nairobi, stating that he eventually aims to run for the presidency in the future, with 2032 being part of his long-term political roadmap.

According to him, his political team is also considering fronting a presidential candidate in 2027 who would serve a single term, before paving the way for a bigger political strategy in the next election cycle.

He added that his faction is open to forming alliances with other like-minded political groups across Kenya to strengthen their chances in national politics.

What This Means for Kenyan Politics

Babu Owino’s remarks add to the growing uncertainty and shifting alliances in Kenya’s political landscape as leaders begin positioning themselves early for 2027.

If the Linda Mwananchi faction proceeds with forming a new political party, it could further reshape opposition politics and potentially weaken traditional party structures like ODM.

With internal disagreements, leadership changes, and emerging factions, ODM appears to be entering one of its most critical transition periods in recent years.

As political realignments continue, all eyes will be on whether Babu Owino officially exits ODM and how his new political direction will influence Nairobi and national politics going forward.

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