Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, Owino stated: “I want to tell Kenyans that I’m supporting Sifuna for President 100%.” He repeated the endorsement for emphasis, making clear that he backs Sifuna as the presidential candidate of the Linda Mwananchi movement.

Owino, who is positioning himself for the Nairobi gubernatorial race in 2027, said there was no conflict of interest between his own ambitions and those of the senator. 

The MP explained that he would scale back attendance at some Linda Mwananchi rallies outside the capital to concentrate on mobilising Nairobi’s nearly 2.5 million registered voters across its 85 wards. He described the city as a critical battleground whose support would be essential for both Sifuna’s presidential bid and the growth of the Linda Mwananchi movement.

Owino pointed to his previous participation in Sifuna’s campaigns in counties including Kisumu, Meru, Bungoma, Mombasa and Trans Nzoia as proof of his commitment. 

The endorsement comes amid speculation of tensions within the Linda Mwananchi movement, which has been holding rallies across the country as it seeks to challenge President William Ruto in 2027. Owino rejected claims of jealousy or wrangles, insisting the two leaders remain close allies who have worked together since their days in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

He also revealed that he has a registered political party that predates the formation of Linda Mwananchi. Owino indicated he intends to retain the party as a vehicle for his gubernatorial bid and has discussed a possible coalition arrangement with Sifuna that would allow both to maintain leadership of their respective outfits.

Earlier, in August 2026 at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Meru, Owino had already signalled strong support for Sifuna, describing him as a “brother” with whom he had shared political battles and declaring “I support you 100%.”

Political observers note that Nairobi’s large voter population and influence make it a key prize in the 2027 elections. Owino’s dual role—campaigning for Sifuna nationally while building a base in the capital—positions him as a significant player in the opposition’s emerging strategy.

Sifuna, the former ODM secretary-general, has intensified his nationwide tours under the Linda Mwananchi banner, repeatedly challenging President Ruto and calling for opposition unity. Owino’s public reaffirmation of support is seen as an attempt to project cohesion within the movement at a time when other opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, are also being courted for broader alliances.

As the 2027 election season gathers pace, Owino’s declaration underscores the early positioning within Kenya’s opposition landscape, with both leaders emphasising collaboration over competition despite their separate elective ambitions.