Owino announced the appointment in a post on his X account on Friday, November 6, describing Kibwana as a distinguished Professor of Law and a defender of human rights.
He also praised Kibwana’s record in public service, citing his tenure as Makueni Governor, where he was ranked among Kenya’s best-performing county chiefs.
“The Mwananchi Party is honoured and privileged to have him as our PATRON,” Owino said.
Kibwana, who served as Makueni’s first governor from 2013 to 2022, has experience in law, academia, human rights advocacy and county administration.
The appointment comes as The Mwananchi Party positions itself as a potential political vehicle ahead of the 2027 General Election, amid discussions among leaders of the Linda Mwananchi movement over the party they will use to contest the polls.
The party was previously known as the Muungano Party before its name was officially changed to The Mwananchi Party on September 10, 2026.
Owino has previously said his pursuit of a political party began in February 2025, after he concluded that ODM would not support his bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat. He said he made three unsuccessful attempts to register a party before securing one in early 2026.
