Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has responded to a supporter who accused him of contributing to divisions within the Linda Mwananchi movement, making fresh claims about people he says are working to undermine the opposition outfit.
In his response, Babu alleged that only two people were responsible for disrupting the movement’s plans and claimed they were being paid by the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
“Kuna tu watu wawili wana haribu Linda Mwananchi na wanalipwa na NIS. Vitu zenye tulipanga walipangua!” Babu said.
The remarks come as Linda Mwananchi faces growing debate over its political structure ahead of the 2027 General Election. Questions have emerged over the political party that should serve as the movement’s vehicle, with Babu backing the Mwananchi Party while the Ukombozi People’s Party has also emerged as an option.
Babu has previously rejected claims that he has fallen out with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, insisting that he remains committed to supporting Sifuna’s presidential ambitions under Linda Mwananchi.
His latest response comes amid calls by opposition leaders for supporters of Babu and Sifuna to avoid exchanges that could deepen divisions within the movement.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently said he had spoken to both Babu and Sifuna over tensions among their supporters and urged them to maintain unity. Gachagua also alleged that state operatives were attempting to infiltrate and divide the movement, although he did not provide evidence for the claim.