Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has sounded the alarm over what he describes as a calculated move by President William Ruto to weaken the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party from within, ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on Ramogi TV on Wednesday evening, Owino accused the Head of State of using broad-based cooperation as a political tool to erode ODM’s influence and destabilize its internal cohesion.
“Ruto is pretending to work with ODM, but deep down, he wants to finish the party from within,” Owino warned.
The outspoken lawmaker urged ODM members currently aligned with the Kenya Kwanza administration to reconsider their positions and return to their oversight roles. He emphasized that ODM must remain vigilant and maintain its independence, even while participating in broader political arrangements.
Owino referenced recent remarks by ODM leader Raila Odinga, who reaffirmed the party’s autonomy and its right to field a presidential candidate in 2027.
“Raila told us not to immerse ourselves in this thing fully, but some of our brothers have refused to take the advice,” Owino said.
During the interview, Owino also addressed his own political future, acknowledging that ODM is unlikely to endorse him for the Nairobi gubernatorial race. He claimed that Governor Johnson Sakaja had already received backing from key party figures, including Raila Odinga.
“I am very sure I will not be given the ODM nomination ticket for the gubernatorial race because ODM leaders recently endorsed Sakaja,” he stated.
Owino’s comments reflect growing unease within ODM ranks, as the party navigates its role in the broad-based government while preparing for a competitive election cycle.
Political analysts say the tension between loyalty to party ideals and participation in cross-party governance could shape ODM’s trajectory in the coming months. With opposition figures like Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa also positioning themselves for 2027, internal unity will be critical.
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