Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is preparing to ditch ODM and seek the Nairobi governor’s seat through former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko’s National Economic Development Party (NEDP).
According to sources familiar with the discussions, Babu’s calculations are informed by the fact that ODM is likely to back incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja for a second term as the broad-based candidate in the party’s pact with President William Ruto.
This has given Babu Owino little room to pursue his gubernatorial ambitions on an ODM ticket, making him seek an alternative political vehicle for his 2027 gubernatorial bid.
NEDP is emerging as that vehicle.
Sources within the discussions say Babu believes the Sonko-led party, apart from becoming his new political home, also comes with access to Sonko’s political network despite his legal and political setbacks.
In Nairobi, Sonko continues to command influence among sizeable sections of the electorate, particularly in the city’s informal settlements and among many Kamba voters.
Babu’s allies believe that working closely with Sonko could strengthen his appeal in constituencies where the former governor still enjoys considerable support.
Within Babu’s camp, there is confidence that the Embakasi East MP has already consolidated strong backing among Luo voters in the capital.
His strategists also believe he has steadily built support among many Kikuyu voters through his visibility on national issues and constituency development.
The thinking within his team is that an alliance with Sonko could help bridge another crucial voting bloc. The political negotiations appear to stretch beyond Nairobi.
Last week, Siaya Governor James Orengo, Babu Owino, and Mike Sonko are said to have held talks in Nairobi aimed at exploring a working relationship between the Linda Mwananchi movement and NEDP.
The proposal would see NEDP formally align with Linda Mwananchi and field candidates in Nairobi as well as other parts of the country.
Although Sonko has repeatedly signalled his intention to make a political comeback, his eligibility to contest in the 2027 elections remains uncertain because of ongoing legal hurdles arising from his removal from office and subsequent court battles.
That uncertainty has fuelled speculation within sections of the party that Sonko could ultimately choose not to seek elective office himself and instead back Babu Owino as the face of NEDP in 2027. Those claims have not been publicly confirmed by Sonko or the party.
