Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has announced plans to establish a new political party in Nyanza, promising to promote competitive nominations and give voters a greater say in choosing their leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a political engagement in the region, Babu said the proposed party would seek to introduce a different approach to selecting candidates, with wananchi playing a central role in determining who represents them.

“This time round, wananchi must decide. And I, Babu, am bringing a party here in Nyanza,” he said.

The MP said the new outfit would seek to challenge leaders he accused of failing to deliver on their responsibilities while providing an alternative platform for aspiring politicians.

Babu promises no direct tickets

Babu said the proposed party would prioritise internal democracy and competitive nominations, ruling out direct nomination tickets for aspirants.

According to the Embakasi East MP, candidates seeking to contest under the party would have to compete fairly during the nomination process.

“This party will have democracy. The nominations will be fair. There will be no direct tickets,” he said.

He said the approach would allow voters and party members to have a greater influence over the candidates who eventually represent the party in the 2027 elections.

Babu’s political plans ahead of 2027

The announcement comes amid continued political realignments as parties and opposition figures prepare for the 2027 General Election.

Babu has in recent months been associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement, which has been conducting political mobilisation in different parts of the country as it seeks to establish itself as an alternative political vehicle.

The movement has also been working to formalise its political identity.

In August, the Registrar of Political Parties agreed to reconsider an earlier decision rejecting an application to reserve the proposed Linda Mwananchi Party name.

Babu’s latest announcement could further reshape the political landscape in Nyanza, where established parties and emerging political movements are expected to compete for influence ahead of the 2027 polls.

His promise of competitive nominations is likely to attract attention among aspirants seeking an alternative platform, particularly those who may be dissatisfied with direct-ticket arrangements in established political parties.