Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro have aired sharp criticisms of their respective political parties, calling for generational renewal, accountability, and adherence to founding principles.
Their remarks, made on Citizen TV’s JKLive show on Wednesday, reflect growing tensions in Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Nyoro Faults UDA Over Economic Policy
Nyoro, who recently fell out with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of abandoning the economic promises it made to Kenyans.
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The Kiharu legislator singled out excessive borrowing and poor management of public resources as major failings, asserting that the government’s current practices contradict its campaign pledges.
“When we were campaigning, I made it clear that I wanted to come here to sell our agenda. The party holds responsibility for shifting from what we promised,” Nyoro said.
He emphasised that sustainable development requires a balance between current expenditure and safeguarding the economy’s future, and also highlighted the need to prioritise education and youth participation in national affairs.
“In many ways, the government is disrespecting the people through some of these decisions,” Nyoro said, adding that national development must remain people-centred and inclusive.
The MP insisted that his criticisms are principle-driven rather than politically motivated, citing the governance of past Presidents Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta as benchmarks for accountability.
Owino Urges ODM Youth Takeover
Meanwhile, Owino accused the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership of drifting away from the ideals of its late leader, Raila Odinga.
He warned that the party risks ideological collapse if it fails to embrace younger leadership and return to its founding principles.
“The General is dead, but the dream is still alive,” Owino said. “Our Moses is gone… we need a Joshua with vim, vigour, courage, and temerity to take the people that Baba left to Canaan.”
Owino recounted personal sacrifices made while supporting Raila, including abduction by alleged State agents and surviving violent attacks.
He criticised ODM’s senior leaders for clinging to power, creating a hostile environment for younger politicians, and abandoning the assertive posture that once made the party dominant.
“The ODM that we have currently does not talk about what Baba stood for. Baba never went to look for coalitions… other parties came to look for Baba,” Owino said.
Addressing speculation about his ambitions as the next Luo political leader, Owino dismissed ethnic labels and said his focus is national.
He also alleged that State-backed intimidation has targeted him in recent months, framing it as a broader attempt to curtail his political influence.
“At the right time, we will all pass. Before you die, the question is what legacy do you want to leave? I want to leave a legacy of transforming lives for the better,” he said.
Tensions Highlight Party Struggles
The statements by Owino and Nyoro underscore ongoing debates in Kenya’s major political parties about leadership succession, ideological clarity, and accountability.
Both MPs highlighted the need for younger leaders to step up and for parties to remain true to the principles that underpin their political struggles, warning that failure to do so could erode public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections.