Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has positioned himself as a leading contender for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, emphasizing a vision-driven leadership approach that he says sets him apart from established political figures.
Speaking during an exclusive interview on Citizen TV on Sunday night, Owino detailed his achievements in Embakasi East and addressed lingering questions about the political platform he intends to use for his Nairobi bid.
“The difference between Babu and these leaders is that those leaders were on a mission; Babu has a vision,” Owino said.
He framed his political journey as one guided by a personal covenant with God to serve the people.
“Where I came from, I made a covenant with God that I must work for His people,” he stated, asserting that his leadership is rooted in service rather than ambition or personal gain.
Owino highlighted his record in Embakasi East as evidence of his capacity to deliver tangible results.
“Babu Owino is the first person who was elected for a second term in Embakasi East. Embakasi East was ranked at 289 out of 290 when I was taking over. Now, Embakasi East is ranked number 1 out of 290,” he noted.
He criticized political leaders driven by self-interest, stating, “Greed blurs vision,” and underscoring his argument that effective governance depends on dedication to constituents rather than party politics.
On the question of which political party he will run under, Owino appeared to signal a flexible, people-centric approach. While he acknowledged the importance of party structures, he insisted that his ultimate loyalty is to the electorate.
“My party is the people. We have seen people being elected even without parties. The first loyalty I have is to the people. Once you are loyal and you work for the people, you don’t need a party,” he said.
Owino indicated that further clarity on his political affiliation will follow, though he emphasized that he remains committed to leadership within the ODM party framework for now.
“I must be the ODM party leader. I know that I deserve it and I am capable,” he affirmed, signaling his ongoing engagement with the party despite past disagreements with senior figures, including Oburu Odinga, over the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
Owino has previously expressed uncertainty about securing the ODM ticket for the Nairobi governorship, making his latest comments the most definitive public outline of his strategy to date.
His emphasis on vision, service delivery, and direct accountability to the people is likely to resonate with urban electorates seeking tangible change and effective governance.
As the 2027 elections approach, the battle for Nairobi’s leadership is expected to intensify, with Owino’s record in Embakasi East providing a clear benchmark against which other aspirants will be measured.
With his public declaration, Babu Owino has made it clear that he sees the Nairobi governorship not just as a political ambition, but as a continuation of his vision to transform communities through focused, people-centered leadership.