Embakasi East MP Babu Owino told K24 in a recorded interview on 13 November that he and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna had negotiated a power‑sharing arrangement before leaving the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

According to Owino, the deal stipulated that Sifuna would be the presidential candidate while Owino would serve as the party leader once they formed a new political vehicle.

He said the arrangement was also endorsed by other ODM defectors who intended to join the new party.

Owino claims the agreement changed after the group exited ODM, with some members pushing for Sifuna to assume the party leadership instead of the presidential slot.

He expressed uncertainty about how the shift occurred, stating he was unaware of the internal discussions that led to the revision.

Owino explained that some members argued a presidential candidate must also be party leader, a view he rejected, insisting both leaders needed space to grow politically.

He added that his decision to pursue a separate political path was driven by protecting his own interests, noting that one leader should not advance at the expense of the other.

Owino defended the original plan, arguing that having Sifuna as presidential candidate and himself as party leader would have provided a check on the president if Sifuna won.

He dismissed suggestions of rivalry, stating Sifuna is targeting the presidency while he is aiming for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.

Despite the split, Owino said he continues to support Sifuna’s presidential ambitions as campaign activities for the 2027 elections intensify.