NAIROBI, Kenya — Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has pledged an aggressive crackdown on cartels operating within Nairobi County if elected governor in the 2027 General Election, outlining a hardline approach that could reshape the city’s governance landscape.
Speaking on Monday, May 4, Babu Owino said dismantling entrenched cartels would be his top priority upon assuming office, arguing that such networks have long undermined service delivery in the capital.
“I will want you to observe how I will lead Nairobians. The first people I am going for are the cartels. I am going to deal with these cartels decisively,” he said.
In remarks likely to stir debate, the lawmaker suggested he would mobilise large numbers of residents to confront individuals linked to corrupt networks.
“I have the people; if I come with 5 million Nairobians to your house, you will relocate to the village. That is how this thing should be done,” he added.
Babu Owino defended his stance, saying leadership often requires firm and, at times, unpopular decisions in order to protect public interest and ensure effective service delivery.
“Leadership you must take certain decisions whether the people will be happy with it or not, and dealing with cartels will be in the best interest of Kenyans,” he stated.
His remarks come as the race for Nairobi’s top seat begins to take shape ahead of 2027, with Babu Owino positioning himself among candidates seeking to unseat incumbent governor Johnson Sakaja.
Other politicians who have declared interest in the gubernatorial contest include George Aladwa, James Gakuya, and Irungu Nyakera, signalling what is expected to be a competitive race centred on service delivery, governance, and urban management.
The crackdown on cartels has long been a recurring theme in Nairobi politics, with successive administrations citing entrenched corruption networks in sectors such as waste management, land allocation, and procurement as major obstacles to reform.
Babu Owino’s latest remarks also intersect with shifting political dynamics within the opposition. The MP has recently aligned himself with the Linda Mwananchi movement, a faction that has been critical of sections of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership, including Oburu Oginga.
