Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has firmly stated that what the late Raila Odinga said in September 2025 is what remains final.
In an exclusive interview with a local TV station on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Babu did state that the late Raila did not want the broad-based government per se.
“He stated clearly the direction that he wanted us to move to in the presence of everybody,” Babu Owino said.
“He stated that we should not be fully in broad-based government and he also stated that ODM must produce a presidential candidate. We don’t want a president or a deputy, we just want power.”
Babu Owino was critical of recent debates within ODM regarding leadership positions.
“Oburu is trying to say that he wants to be the deputy president. Having said that he did not want the president and deputy, it means that there is something else Oburu is chasing,” he said.
“He said he is chasing power; we don’t know what this power entails. Baba was old in body and young in mind. After Baba has gone, we need to ask ourselves, do we need a younger Joshua or an older Joshua? Do we need an energetic Joshua or do we need a tired Joshua?”
The MP argued that the party should give leadership space to younger members. “Oburu should leave the party to young people like Babu Owino to be the party leader and him to be the trustee. I would want to be the party leader. I overqualify to be a party leader,” he said.
ODM’s future direction
Babu Owino emphasized that ODM’s direction, as outlined by Raila, is to focus on producing a presidential candidate and consolidating power. He argued that this approach ensures the party remains relevant and responsive to Kenyans.
He also highlighted the importance of energetic and capable leadership in guiding ODM forward.
“We must respect Baba’s vision and ensure the party has a clear path, not personal ambitions,” he added.
The MP’s comments underscore ongoing debates about succession and leadership within Kenya’s opposition landscape, reflecting broader political dynamics and the balance between experienced and emerging leaders.
Babu Owino’s remarks come as ODM prepares for internal consultations on its leadership and strategic direction ahead of the next general election, with attention on both human interest and political continuity within the party.
