Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has notably sidestepped a direct confrontation with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, attributing his restrained response to the critical political situation surrounding Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson. Speaking during the Katiba@14 commemorations at Ufungamano House on Wednesday, Owino emphasized his strategic silence to avoid jeopardizing Odinga’s bid for the AUC role.
In his address, Owino acknowledged Museveni’s recent criticism, but chose not to engage directly. He framed this decision within the context of his respect for Museveni, whom he referred to as a “grandfather.” Owino’s respectful approach was aimed at maintaining the Ugandan President’s support for Odinga’s campaign. “The current President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni came yesterday and I don’t want him to lose his vote for Baba; I want him to vote for Baba. I genuinely respect him as my grandfather,” Owino stated.
However, Owino did not shy away from critiquing Museveni’s lengthy presidency, which has spanned over 36 years. Drawing comparisons with other long-serving leaders like Mobutu Sese Seko of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, Owino warned against the dangers of prolonged rule. He advised leaders to avoid becoming “drunk with power,” a sentiment he believes tarnishes their legacies. “The number of years he has served in power is more than my years, and therefore there is a time and a season for everything. I respect him and I recognize him as a revolutionary, and there are those revolutionaries who ended up very badly,” Owino remarked.
Owino’s measured response contrasts sharply with the remarks of Eugene Wamalwa, leader of the DAP-Kenya Party, who expressed surprise at Museveni’s apparent conflict with a young politician like Owino. Wamalwa, who has known Museveni for over two decades, criticized the Ugandan leader for targeting a figure who could be seen as a grandson. “We were very shocked yesterday when we heard one of the Heads of State attack someone who is supposed to be his grandson. Mimi ni rafiki sana wa mheshimiwa Yoweri Museveni,” Wamalwa said.
The backdrop to this political exchange is Museveni’s recent endorsement of Raila Odinga’s bid for the AUC Chairperson position. During a speech on Tuesday, Museveni accused Owino of meddling in Uganda’s politics, alleging that the Kenyan MP was involved in collaborating with Uganda’s opposition. This accusation prompted Owino to issue a carefully crafted response, avoiding direct confrontation and instead reaffirming his commitment to democratic principles. He emphasized his own background and understanding of the socio-economic challenges faced by the youth in both Kenya and Uganda.
In his speech, Owino recounted his humble beginnings and expressed solidarity with the disadvantaged. He highlighted the economic challenges faced by young people in Kenya and Uganda, underscoring the need for visionary leadership that addresses their needs. “Young people in the two nations require good and visionary leaders who understand them,” Owino asserted, drawing a parallel between the economic situations in both countries.
Owino’s strategic approach reflects a nuanced understanding of the complex political dynamics at play, balancing respect for a seasoned leader with a commitment to democratic values. By sidestepping direct confrontation, Owino aims to protect Odinga’s bid while continuing to advocate for effective and empathetic leadership.
