Babu Owino Names Ex-Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana As Mwananchi Party Patron

Former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana has been officially named the patron of the Mwananchi Party as the political outfit accelerates its national recruitment drive ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Announcing the appointment, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, who serves as the party leader, praised Kibwana’s legal scholarship, human rights advocacy, and track record in public administration.

“Professor Kivutha Kibwana is a distinguished Professor of Law and a passionate defender of human rights,” Babu stated. “He was ranked among Kenya’s best-performing Governors and left a remarkable legacy through his transformative leadership and service to the people of Makueni County. The Mwananchi Party is honoured and privileged to have him as our PATRON.”

Strategic Guidance and Devolution Legacy

As patron, Kibwana is set to provide strategic counsel, shape party policy, and mentor leadership as the outfit works to build a national presence.

Kibwana served two terms as Makueni Governor from 2013 to 2022, earning widespread recognition for his public participation model and county-level development agenda. Prior to elective politics, he established a legal academia career, contributing to national constitutional reforms and democracy frameworks.

Building Ahead of 2027

Kibwana’s entry marks a significant boost for the Mwananchi Party—formerly known as the Muungano Party until its rebranding on September 10, 2026, through the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.

Babu Owino has actively spearheaded membership drives beyond his Embakasi East constituency, positioning the party as a key platform for his broader political ambitions, including an anticipated bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in 2027.