Babu Owino Forms Rival Alliance to Challenge Azimio Coalition

The formation of a fresh opposition alliance by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, alongside other lawmakers like Gathoni Wamuchomba, has sparked discussions about holding the government accountable and addressing the concerns of Kenyans.

Babu Owino on Monday announced the creation of this new forum during a press conference expressing dissatisfaction with the perceived lack of action from the main opposition coalition. The team, dubbed “Team Kusikiza Ground” by Wamuchomba, comprises MPs from various political parties united in their commitment to emphasize the government’s responsibility in tackling urgent issues affecting Kenyans. Owino emphasizes that the forum’s goal is to fight for the voiceless and advocate for the rights of every Kenyan across the country’s eight regions.

He cautions that if necessary, the team would organize significant and impactful street protests in every ward and constituency to pressure the government into addressing the challenges faced by the populace. Among the topics discussed during the address were concerns over counterfeit fertilizers and seeds, alcoholism, the Haiti mission, high taxation, and the ongoing doctors’ strike. Wamuchomba shared these details on her X account and highlighted the forum’s determination to hold the government accountable on a wide range of issues.

However, the launch of this new opposition alliance has also revealed underlying tensions and competition for succession within Azimio. Azimio leader Raila Odinga has seemingly toned down his criticism of the government since expressing interest in a top job at the African Union (AU), a move that political analysts believe is a strategic approach to avoid alienating the government whose support is crucial for winning the AU position. Meanwhile, members of Azimio and Raila’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party are positioning themselves for succession, with Babu Owino’s recent actions seen as part of this effort.

Amos Mwago and Charles Nguna are also part of the team, leading in Starehe and Mwingi West respectively. Owino emphasizes their commitment to maintaining pressure on the government to resolve the ongoing doctors’ strike, which has lasted for 14 days. He urges the government not to become complacent, recalling the 100-day strike that occurred in 2016, and insisted on the fulfilment of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) signed between the government and the doctors, which included the payment of outstanding arrears.

The formation of this fresh opposition alliance highlights the current dynamics within Kenyan politics, with various factions vying for influence and seeking to hold the government accountable on various fronts.