Homa Bay town mp Peter Kaluma has publicly urged Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to rejoin the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Kaluma believes Owino’s return to ODM would strategically position him as Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja’s running mate, enhancing his political relevance and influence within the city’s leadership landscape.
Speaking on Monday, Kaluma emphasized that aligning with ODM would give Owino a clear path to victory while keeping his long-term political ambitions alive.
He argued that this move would allow Owino to rebuild his profile, positioning himself for a gubernatorial bid in Nairobi in 2032.
Kaluma outlined two options for Owino: either serve as Sakaja’s deputy under ODM in 2027 or seek re-election as Embakasi East MP while planning his eventual run for Nairobi Governor.
The Nairobi Speaker stressed that rejoining ODM is more than a tactical decision; it would be a pathway to regain influence among grassroots supporters and maintain a strong foothold in city politics.
Kaluma noted that political realignments ahead of 2027 are crucial, and MPs like Owino must weigh long-term gains over short-term electoral battles.
He highlighted that Owino’s current independent trajectory limits his access to party machinery, resources, and support that could be pivotal in a high-stakes Nairobi contest.
By re-entering ODM, Owino would also be in a position to collaborate with Sakaja on urban development agendas, which could appeal to Nairobi residents ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kaluma reassured Owino that the party would welcome him back, emphasizing that previous differences should not hinder strategic alliances that benefit both the individual and the party.
Political analysts note that Owino’s popularity among younger voters makes him a valuable asset for ODM, particularly if paired with Sakaja in a Nairobi-focused ticket.
Kaluma’s appeal underscores the importance of political unity in Nairobi, where fragmented loyalties could weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 polls.
The speaker further argued that Owino’s temporary step back from executive ambitions in 2027 could strengthen his chances of winning the governor’s seat in 2032, with a well-established political network.
Owino has, in the past, been vocal about his disagreements with ODM leadership, but Kaluma’s intervention suggests party strategists are willing to reconcile differences for electoral advantage.
Kaluma concluded that Kenya’s dynamic political landscape demands flexibility, and Owino’s alignment with ODM could be mutually beneficial for both his career and the party’s city strategy.
Observers say the coming months will be critical as party negotiations intensify and leaders like Kaluma push for strategic alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
Owino’s decision will likely influence Nairobi politics significantly, potentially reshaping alliances and voter dynamics in the city’s key constituencies.
Kaluma’s public appeal reflects a broader trend of ODM leaders courting influential MPs to consolidate power ahead of future elections.
As the 2027 elections approach, political watchers expect more calls for reconciliation, strategic partnerships, and party realignments to strengthen electoral chances in Nairobi and nationwide.
Kaluma’s message is clear: Owino has an opportunity to secure a strategic deputy position, preserve political relevance, and lay the groundwork for future leadership ambitions in the city.
This intervention signals the start of intense negotiations among Nairobi politicians, with high-stakes decisions shaping the electoral landscape over the next few years.
