Babu Owino Addresses Nairobi Governor Race Exit Claims After Meeting Gachagua
Owino responded to reports suggesting Gachagua had advised him to abandon the governorship race and pursue the Nairobi Senate seat instead. The claims emerged following a meeting between the two politicians and other leaders linked to emerging opposition alliances.
“My unworthy opponents have given up and are now banking on fake news. Nairobi has already been decided. The gubernatorial race is between Babu Owino and Paul Ongili,” Owino declared in a social media post.
Gachagua Meeting Sparks Political Speculation
The speculation followed Gachagua's meeting with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other Linda Mwananchi movement leaders at his Wamunyoro residence. The meeting took place in Nyeri County on Tuesday, shortly after the former Deputy President returned from the United States.
The discussions came as political leaders explored possible partnerships ahead of the 2027 General Election. DCP Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala had previously urged Sifuna to cooperate politically with Gachagua.
Reports that Gachagua wanted Owino to pursue the Senate instead of the governorship fuelled further debate about potential alliances. However, Owino's latest statement indicates that he has no intention of abandoning his Nairobi gubernatorial ambitions.
The Embakasi East MP has previously faced similar claims about his political plans. In January 2026, he dismissed reports that he had shelved his gubernatorial bid to pursue a parliamentary seat in Kisumu County.
Owino Prepares for 2027 Contest
Owino announced the Mwananchi Party as his political vehicle on September 18, 2026, signalling his intention to pursue the Nairobi governorship. His decision places him among several politicians preparing to challenge for control of the capital's county government.
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, a close ally of Gachagua, has also declared interest in the Nairobi governorship. Incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja is preparing to defend his position, amid speculation that he could leave UDA for ODM.
Former Nairobi County Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria has also announced his intention to contest the seat. His political plans have attracted attention, with former governor Mike Sonko and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i featuring in related discussions.
Other potential contenders include Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri and businesswoman Agnes Kagure. Former Starehe MP Margaret Wanjiru, Makadara MP George Aladwa and political commentator Tony Gachoka have also featured among the aspirants.
Nairobi Race Expected to Attract National Attention
The 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial contest is expected to draw considerable interest because of the capital's electoral strength and political significance. Competition among established politicians could also make alliances and party nominations important factors in determining the eventual candidates.
Nairobi recorded 2,415,310 registered voters across 17 constituencies and 85 wards during the 2022 General Election. That figure could change before the next election as voter registration and transfers continue.
Owino's denial comes as political realignments gather momentum ahead of the nationwide polls. Whether the emerging alliances influence his campaign or the wider contest remains to be seen.
Post a Comment