Babu Owino breaks silence on Sifuna rift claims

Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Babu Owino has refuted claims of a political rift with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, reiterating his backing for Sifuna as part of their shared Linda Mwananchi movement leading up to the 2027 General Election. Owino emphasized that Sifuna should continue to engage other opposition leaders, including Rigathi Gachagua, Kawira Mwangaza, Kalonzo Musyoka, James Orengo, Fred Matiang’i, and Uhuru Kenyatta.

During a meeting with youth on August 26, 2026, Owino claimed that reports of a rift aimed to weaken the opposition's stance against President William Ruto's administration. He urged supporters to remain behind Sifuna, stating their political alliance originated from grassroots efforts and should not be undermined by online rumors.

"I want us to hold hands, hold Sifuna as my brother, hold Babu Owino too. This time, let us take things forward and push our brother Sifuna," Owino stated. He argued that the opposition's best chance against the Kenya Kwanza administration was through unity, questioning how they could change their lives without unity. Despite reports suggesting disagreements, Owino defended his relationship with Sifuna, explaining they started together and would not abandon each other.

He accused the government of attempting to fracture the opposition by using bloggers and online supporters, but provided no evidence. Despite potential political pressure, Owino insisted opposition leaders would respond through unity and faith, not violence. His comments aim to dispel speculation about his relationship with Sifuna and stress the importance of opposition unity for the 2027 election.