Speaking at the funeral of Jeremiah Kisero in Central Nyakach, Kisumu County, Owino said the disagreement over which party should carry the Linda Mwananchi banner should not derail the movement’s broader objective of presenting a united front for the 2027 General Election.
He pledged to stand with Sifuna, describing the senator as “my brother” and promising to keep him “in solidarity” as the movement’s flag‑bearer for the presidency.
Owino outlined a two‑party coalition model in which Sifuna would lead the Ukombozi People’s Party while Owino would retain leadership of The Mwananchi Party, allowing both parties to keep their identities while operating under a single Linda Mwananchi umbrella.
The proposal comes after a public dispute emerged within Linda Mwananchi over the political vehicle for Sifuna’s campaign. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and other leaders have backed Ukombozi as the preferred platform, while Owino has argued that his own party should serve that role.
Owino explained that he secured The Mwananchi Party before the movement was formed, intending to use it as a vehicle for his own Nairobi governorship ambitions after concluding that the Orange Democratic Movement would not support his bid.
He said the introduction of the Ukombozi People’s Party into Linda Mwananchi discussions sparked a “push and pull” with Sifuna, but insisted the issue is organisational rather than personal, noting that the two have worked together through turbulent periods within ODM.
Linda Mwananchi spokesperson Caroli Omondi confirmed that the movement has already settled on Sifuna as its presidential candidate, but welcomed the idea of a broader coalition that could accommodate multiple opposition parties ahead of the 2027 polls.
If adopted, the coalition could reshape opposition dynamics in Kenya, offering a unified platform for Sifuna’s presidential run while allowing Owino to pursue his Nairobi ambitions through The Mwananchi Party.