Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has stirred political waters with his declaration that he is unafraid of leaving the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party. Speaking during a meeting with constituents in Mihang’o, Kayole, the outspoken legislator revealed he has been receiving threats from individuals within the party for his refusal to support President William Ruto’s administration.
Despite the challenges, Babu remains steadfast in his stance, asserting that he will not compromise his principles even if it leads to expulsion from ODM. “I was campaigning for Raila but I told Baba that I will not support a government that is unfair to the people of Kenya,” Babu said, adding that his position has attracted criticism and threats of being “chased away” from the party in 2027.
A Rift in ODM?
Babu Owino’s comments come against the backdrop of ODM leader Raila Odinga’s cooperation pact with the Kenya Kwanza government, which led to the inclusion of several opposition figures in President Ruto’s cabinet. This arrangement, seen by many as a move to quell the Generation Z-led anti-government protests earlier this year, has created divisions within the ODM party.
Babu’s refusal to align with the Kenya Kwanza administration reflects the unease among some ODM members regarding the party’s perceived shift from its opposition role. His critics within the party have accused him of insubordination, alleging he has “grown horns” and deserves to be expelled.
However, the MP has remained unshaken. “Should I live in fear because of threats that I will be chased away in 2027? Even if they chase me away from the party, is there a problem?” Babu posed, emphasizing that his allegiance lies with his constituents and the principles of fairness and justice.
Loyalty to Raila
Despite his criticisms of the party’s direction, Babu Owino reiterated his respect and admiration for Raila Odinga, whom he described as his political mentor. He acknowledged Raila’s immense contribution to Kenya’s political landscape and urged all Kenyans to support his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship.
“We will not fear anyone, and we will respect Raila Odinga as our political father. He has tried so hard, and now we want God to bless him to become the AUC chairman so he can also live in peace,” Babu said.
The MP emphasized that while Raila, like all leaders, has his weaknesses, his strengths far outweigh them. He called on Kenyans to pray for Raila’s success in securing the continental position, describing it as an opportunity for him to serve Africa and transition to a more peaceful phase of his political journey.
Constituents First
Babu Owino also took the opportunity to affirm his commitment to the people of Embakasi East. He credited his political success to his constituents and divine guidance, dismissing threats of expulsion from ODM as inconsequential to his mission.
“I came to this town from Nyalenda (Kisumu), and it is you people who elected me with God’s guidance. It is God who chooses leaders,” he said.
The MP’s remarks highlight the growing tension within ODM as the party grapples with maintaining cohesion while navigating its cooperation with the ruling government. Babu’s bold stance underscores the challenges faced by political parties in balancing individual member interests and collective party goals.
As Kenya’s political landscape continues to evolve, Babu Owino’s determination to stand by his principles regardless of the cost—cements his position as a maverick voice within the ODM and a representative of his constituents’ aspirations. His journey will likely be a litmus test for ODM’s ability to accommodate dissenting voices while charting a united course forward.
