Babu Speaks on Claims of Dropping Nairobi Gubernatorial Bid
2 min read
Photo Courtesy BABU OWINO
Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has broken his silence following reports alleging that he has abandoned plans to contest the Nairobi governor’s seat in the 2027 General Election.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, January 7, the outspoken legislator dismissed the claims as misleading, saying they were being circulated by “Unworthy Opponents” He maintained that his political focus remains firmly on Nairobi and not any other county.
According to Babu, suggestions that he intends to shift his ambitions to Kisumu are entirely false. He emphasised that he has not stepped away from the Nairobi race and remains committed to pursuing City Hall leadership at the right time.
The MP has on several occasions hinted at challenging incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja, although he is yet to officially declare his candidature. His recent public engagements across the city have further fuelled speculation about his 2027 ambitions.
Governor Sakaja, who was elected in 2022 under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, is seeking re-election and currently enjoys support from the broader government coalition, which includes the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Babu’s party.
This political alignment has sparked debate within ODM, with uncertainty surrounding whether the party will field its own candidate in Nairobi or back the sitting governor. Despite the uncertainty, ODM leaders have previously assured Babu that the party’s nomination process will be fair and transparent.
ODM chairperson Oburu Oginga has publicly urged patience, stressing that the party will reward merit and loyalty during nominations. He noted that any candidate who emerges victorious through the laid-down procedures will automatically receive the party ticket.
Meanwhile, Governor Sakaja has continued to strengthen his ties with ODM, attending key party functions and maintaining a cooperative working relationship with party leadership. In September 2024, he survived an impeachment attempt after mediation efforts by President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Political analysts argue that Babu Owino remains a strong contender should he enter the Nairobi race, citing his influence among young voters and his strong grassroots support. Some leaders have suggested that his candidacy could significantly reshape Nairobi’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
As speculation continues, attention now turns to whether Babu will formally declare his bid and the political path he will choose as the contest for City Hall takes shape.
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