Suna East MP Junet Mohamed has claimed that Embakasi East MP Babu Owino contacted him to complain about divisions within the Linda Mwananchi movement and concerns over its direction. Speaking in Sibuoche, Migori County, Junet said Babu had expressed reservations about a faction associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, amid growing public discussion over differences within the opposition movement. Junet claimed Babu told him he was concerned that some people within Linda Mwananchi were taking him in the wrong political direction.

“There is infighting within Linda Sponsor, which has now become Linda Sifuna. Yesterday Babu Owino called me, and he was crying like a three-year-old baby,” Junet said, according to Nairobi Leo.

He further claimed that Babu told him he had not realised that members of the movement were taking him in what he considered the wrong direction. Junet’s account of the alleged phone conversation has not been independently confirmed by Babu Owino. Junet used the remarks to urge Babu to return to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying the party could provide a platform for the Embakasi East MP to pursue his political ambitions.

“Babu, please come back home to ODM. Let us build the party together so that we can help you if you want to become the governor,” Junet said.

The appeal comes as Babu positions himself for the Nairobi governorship ahead of the 2027 General Election. Babu has previously said his political ambitions do not conflict with those of Sifuna, who has expressed interest in the presidency. He has also indicated that he would skip some Linda Mwananchi rallies to concentrate on his own campaign activities. Junet’s latest claims come shortly after Babu publicly addressed speculation about his relationship with Sifuna. The Embakasi East MP said there was no reason for the two politicians to be in conflict because they were pursuing different elective positions. His earlier comments therefore provide a different public account from Junet’s description of the alleged private conversation. The substance of the conversation Junet says took place remains unverified unless Babu confirms it publicly.

The remarks come as Linda Mwananchi continues its political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections. The movement has brought together politicians including Sifuna and Babu and has held rallies in different parts of the country. However, recent public statements by politicians have exposed disagreements over its leadership, organisation and political direction. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has also accused Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya of contributing to disagreements within the movement, although those claims are similarly allegations. The movement has also faced disruptions and threats around some of its public events, adding to questions about its ability to maintain cohesion as it expands its political activities.

For now, Junet’s claims add another layer to the public debate surrounding Linda Mwananchi. However, there is no independent confirmation that Babu contacted Junet to complain about the movement or that he intends to leave it. The political positions of Babu, Sifuna and other leaders will become clearer as they continue their campaigns and organise their respective political bases ahead of the 2027 General Election.