NAIROBI, Kenya – Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has attributed Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s opposition to the UDA-ODM broad-based government deal to the unique political dynamics of the capital city.
According to Odhiambo, Nairobi politics have historically leaned towards opposition, and politicians like Babu and Sifuna are primarily safeguarding their local political interests.
“Nairobi is always in opposition. They are protecting their interests,” Odhiambo said.
The lawmaker also acknowledged that the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga has left a leadership vacuum that cannot be filled immediately.
She noted that the party is working to reposition itself politically before regaining prominence.
“And not just ODM, a lot of people who believe in justice, democracy and the values that Baba stood for feel orphaned because he was consistent over the years. There is going to be a bit of a bumpy ride, and that is normal,” she added.
Millie Odhiambo, Suba North MP: Babu Owino and Edwin Sifuna are not aligned to broad-based government because of the nature of Nairobi politics. Nairobi is always in the opposition. They are protecting their interests.#FixingTheNationNTV @nationfmke @ericlatiff @mariambishar
Odhiambo highlighted that identifying a successor with Odinga’s charisma and political influence will take time, even though several capable leaders have emerged under his mentorship.
These include Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff, Mining Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Joho and John Mbadi, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, and Babu Owino.
She urged ODM supporters not to search for a replica of Odinga in these leaders but to recognize their unique strengths.
“He groomed many capable people. The mistake we are making is looking for a Baba in each of us. They are all capable, but the chips will fall in place—or as we say in Luo, Juogi will speak,” she said.
The remarks come amid growing speculation about internal divisions within ODM, as some members openly support the broad-based government to honor Odinga’s partnership with President William Ruto.
Others, however, suggest that the party’s stance may evolve ahead of the 2027 elections.
Odhiambo cited Sifuna as an example, noting that pushing the broad-based agenda in Nairobi could be politically risky.
“In politics, people look out for their own interests. In Suba North, they will accept that Baba said we are in broad-based until 2027. But if Sifuna goes to Nairobi and pushes that agenda, he is in trouble,” she explained.
