Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has shared insights about an unfulfilled power-sharing agreement with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna during the establishment of the Linda Mwananchi movement’s leadership structure.
In a recent interview with K24 TV, Babu explained that the initial plan involved Sifuna as the presidential candidate while he would take on the role of party leader, a strategy designed to support the political aspirations of both leaders.
However, Babu acknowledged that this agreement fell through, prompting discussions about the negotiations and political dynamics that shaped the movement’s final leadership arrangement.
“We had a clear understanding that once we launched the party, Sifuna would be our presidential candidate and I would lead the party. But circumstances shifted unexpectedly,” Babu noted.
His comments shed light on the intricate political negotiations within Linda Mwananchi, particularly regarding leadership roles and the ambitions of its key figures.
Babu raised concerns about the shift in the original power-sharing agreement. He emphasized that the initial arrangement aimed to provide both leaders with the necessary political space to thrive rather than compete against each other.
He argued that Sifuna’s pursuit of the presidency and his own gubernatorial goals could harmonize if the movement adopted a structure that embraced their interests.
The proposed setup would have allowed Sifuna to chase the presidency while Babu led the party.
He questioned the notion that a presidential candidate could not also serve as party leader, a point that emerged during their discussions.
“Some argued that a presidential candidate shouldn’t be a party leader. But we believed both of us needed to flourish. Politics revolves around interests; one cannot advance while holding back another,” he explained.
Babu maintained that their proposed arrangement aimed to protect both leaders’ political interests without creating rival power centers.
He referenced the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to illustrate the necessity for politicians to have independent political structures that safeguard their interests.
He highlighted that having a political party could provide a politician with security, especially when political alliances evolve after attaining significant government roles.
“Remember Gachagua? He stated that if he had his own political party, he wouldn’t have faced impeachment,” Babu remarked.
He also pointed to Kabila Mungazi’s involvement in the Linda Mwananchi movement as an example of how politicians can remain engaged in political structures without being the founders of those parties.
Babu suggested that political arrangements must consider the uncertainties that accompany power, cautioning against the assumption that political alliances will always remain stable.
“We must confront reality as it is, while learning from history,” he said.
Despite the changes in the agreement, Babu firmly rejected the notion that his ambitions conflict with Sifuna’s.
He clarified that their goals diverge, with Sifuna aiming for the presidency and himself pursuing the Nairobi gubernatorial seat.
“There’s no competition between Babu and Sifuna. Sifuna is vying for president; I’m aiming for governor. What’s the conflict? There’s none,” he stated.
Babu pointed out that competition would only arise if they sought the same office.
“If Sifuna wants the governorship, there will be rivalry. If I aim for the presidency, there will be competition. But with Sifuna going for president and me for governor, what’s at stake? Nothing,” he added.
Babu addressed concerns about whether the leadership structure changes had led to mistrust between him and Sifuna.
He dismissed the idea that trust should form the basis of political partnerships, arguing instead for alliances built around clear interests and commitments to the electorate.
“Politics isn’t about trust; it’s about interests. We need to prioritize how the public will benefit,” he asserted.
In a candid moment, Babu admitted he doesn’t necessarily trust his political colleagues, emphasizing that personal relationships should not overshadow political agreements.
“I don’t trust my friends. I have friends, but I don’t rely on them in politics,” he stated.
He underscored that the priority must always be to fulfill promises made to the people of Kenya.
“Our focus should be on serving the public’s interests. What commitments have we made to them?” he concluded.
