Onyonka clarifies how Babu Owino’s Mwananchi Party was registered

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has shed light on the origin of Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino's Mwananchi Party, amidst controversy over the political entity to represent Linda Mwananchi ahead of the 2027 General Election. Addressing an interview with a local station on September 19, 2026, Onyonka clarified that the party was not clandestinely established by Babu Owino, stating that Linda Mwananchi team members were fully aware of its registration.

Initially, the team planned to use the name "Linda Mwanainchi Party," but discovered the term "Linda" was already taken during discussions with the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP). They then opted for the name "Mwanainchi," which was subsequently registered and designated its colors. Onyonka revealed that he proposed the "Mwanainchi" name, and it was eventually registered.

The senator emphasized that the party became operational about four to five days prior to the Linda Mwananchi rally held at Nairobi's Jacaranda Grounds. He stated that all team members were aware of the party's registration and were prepared to utilize it as they persisted with their political activities. Onyonka mentioned the team had contemplated forming a single political party to unite its leaders and supporters, rather than maintaining separate parties tied to individual politicians.

He acknowledged that some members pursued other political parties, including the Ukombozi Party, which also surfaced in discussions surrounding the movement's potential political vehicle. The senator added that the aim was to establish one party capable of constructing a robust political base while permitting various parties to collaborate within a broader coalition.

This debate emerged following Babu Owino's announcement of a coalition between the Mwananchi Party and Ukombozi People's Party under the umbrella of Linda Mwananchi. Onyonka dismissed assertions that Babu Owino's decision to register the Mwananchi Party signified a betrayal of Kisii Senator Edwin Sifuna. He affirmed that he had communicated with both Babu Owino and Edwin Sifuna, asserting that they were not at odds.

"I've spoken with Honorable Babu. I've spoken with Honourable Sifuna. We don't have a fight," Onyonka affirmed. He further stressed the necessity for the leaders to maintain unity despite diverging opinions on the political party and the movement's trajectory. "We know if we don’t stay together as a team, we are going to hang separately in front of William Ruto," Onyonka cautioned.

The remarks come as Linda Mwananchi remains preoccupied with inquiries regarding its political structure, party mechanisms, and how various leaders will collaborate effectively ahead of the 2027 elections.