NAIROBI, Kenya – Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has dismissed speculation about a fallout with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, maintaining that their relationship remains strong despite some political differences.
Speaking on Citizen TV, Babu likened his bond with Raila to a family dynamic, where disagreements are inevitable but don’t shake the foundation.
“Baba is my political leader. Even in a family, there could be issues here and there, but you do not allow it to go under your skin. Those are normal things,” Babu said.
Why Babu Missed Raila-Ruto Pact Signing
One key moment that fueled the rift rumors was Babu’s absence on March 7, 2025, when Raila formally signed a political pact with President William Ruto, a move that signaled closer collaboration between the two leaders.
Pressed on why he skipped the event, Babu downplayed its significance, insisting that his priorities lay elsewhere.
“My people are supreme. They come first. Even in a family, you might not agree 100 percent. There are ideological differences that we have,” he explained.
The lawmaker, known for his outspoken stance on governance, said he has no problem with Raila and Ruto working together—as long as it benefits Kenyans.
“Baba joining Ruto is not a bad thing. But Baba joining Ruto and Ruto not working for Kenyans is not a good thing. If Baba is joining Ruto and Ruto is working for Kenyans, then we do not have a problem,” he stated.
“My relationship with Baba (Raila Odinga) is extremely Okay. I have no problem with him, and I believe that he has no problem with me…because I’m his son,” Embakasi East MP Babu Owino opens up
The Bigger Picture: Cost of Living and Governance
Beyond political alignments, Babu emphasized that his focus remains on key national issues, particularly the cost of living, taxation, and youth employment.
“We want to see our youth getting jobs, services being rendered. We want to see the Social Health Authority working. Those are the things we want to see,” he said.
Kama Raila ameamua kushikana na Ruto mimi siko na yeye lakini nampatia heshima. mimi hakuna mtu ananibebea akili yangu, mimi sifuati mtu blindly.~Babu Owino
He also took a swipe at the government’s management, blaming poor organization for the country’s economic struggles.
“When you are running a country, you must do it with professionals who are not greedy,” he asserted.
With Kenya’s political landscape shifting, Babu’s position reflects a growing demand for results over rhetoric. Whether Raila’s new alliance with Ruto delivers on that front remains to be seen.
