By Billy Mijungu
Ahh, it is that moment — the “aha!” moment when James Orengo declares interest in the presidency, and suddenly the political conversation changes. The contest becomes clearer, the stakes become higher, and the road to 2027 acquires an entirely different dimension.
But there is another development that should not be lost in the excitement: the Linda Mwananchi movement may have just gained additional firepower, with its reserve force for the future being none other than Babu Owino, particularly as his political influence continues to move beyond Nairobi.
Suddenly, the noise is no longer simply about betrayal, one candidate, confusion or party politics. The contest has taken shape.
For Linda Mwananchi, this should be the moment to put its house in order, strengthen its structures and establish a clear political framework. The movement should set the pace for open, transparent and credible presidential nominations in which all interested candidates are given an opportunity to participate.
That would be good for democracy.
It would also demonstrate that the movement is prepared to build politics around institutions, ideas and the will of the people rather than personalities alone. The road to the presidency has suddenly become longer, but that may ultimately be a good thing for democratic competition.
There are already persuasions within the political landscape sympathetic to the ODM tradition, even as the party faces questions about its diminishing fortunes and leadership. Recent political tensions and allegations of violence have only deepened concerns among citizens who want political competition conducted peacefully.
The appearance of Orengo and Babu Owino in Homa Bay without the kind of disruption that has characterised some political gatherings elsewhere is therefore significant. It suggests that political engagements can take place without intimidation, and that voters can listen, debate and make their own choices.
The most urgent task, however, is for Nyanza and regions politically friendly to it to begin thinking beyond personalities and individual electoral cycles.
There is a compelling case for an alternative political party capable of providing a broad regional and national platform — one that is organised, democratic and capable of negotiating power from a position of strength.
Such an initiative could draw on the political experience of James Orengo, the organisational and policy instincts of Caroli Omondi, and the youthful energy and mobilisation capacity associated with Babu Owino.
The region is watching.
What is required now is speed, organisation, courage and clarity of purpose. If the idea of a new political vehicle is to take root, the groundwork must begin early enough to give citizens a genuine alternative.
Nyanza wants to be on the table — not on the menu.
