Babu, who has increasingly been associated with the Linda Mwananchi faction, has emerged as a potential contender in what could become a closely watched contest for control of Kenya’s capital.
The development presents a challenge for ODM, which must balance competing interests as it positions itself ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party’s decision could determine whether it enters the race with a single candidate or faces internal divisions that could benefit incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja.
The situation has been further complicated by the declaration of second-term Makadara MP George Aladwa, who also serves as ODM’s Nairobi County chairman, that he intends to challenge Sakaja for the governor’s seat.
Aladwa’s political experience and position within the party give his bid significant weight.
However, the growing support for Babu among some MPs signals that the contest could develop into a battle between different factions and political networks within the broader opposition camp.
For ODM, choosing between established party structures and the growing popularity of Babu could prove difficult.
The party will also have to consider the political alliances likely to shape Nairobi’s 2027 gubernatorial race.
Sakaja, meanwhile, is expected to defend his position as the political competition intensifies.
With Nairobi commanding enormous political and economic significance, the gubernatorial contest is likely to attract national attention.
ODM’s eventual decision on its candidate could have implications far beyond City Hall, particularly as opposition parties seek to consolidate their strength ahead of the 2027 presidential and parliamentary elections.
The coming months are therefore expected to test ODM’s ability to manage internal competition while maintaining a united front in the capital.