Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has sparked debate over the leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) following the death of party founder Raila Odinga, questioning the intentions of current party head, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga.
The remarks were made during an interview on Citizen TV’s Sunday Live on Sunday night.
Owino suggested that Oburu Odinga, who assumed leadership after Raila’s passing, may have ambitions beyond his publicly stated role.
“Oburu is trying to say that he wants to be the deputy president, having said he did not want the president and deputy, it means that there is something else Oburu is chasing. He said he is chasing power; we don’t know what this power entails,” Owino remarked.
The lawmaker contrasted the late Raila Odinga, whom he described as “old in body and young in mind,” with the future of the party. Owino questioned whether the ODM should be led by older figures or transition to youthful leadership.
“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?” he asked.
He further called on the current leadership to make way for younger party members, positioning himself as ready to take the helm.
“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,” Owino said.
Political analysts say Owino’s comments reflect growing tensions within ODM as it navigates the post-Raila era, with questions about succession and the balance between experience and youth leadership.
The remarks also shows the increasing visibility of younger politicians seeking to shape the party’s direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The debate over ODM’s leadership comes at a time when the party faces scrutiny over its succession planning and the future role of veteran politicians.
Owino’s call for a generational shift highlights a broader trend in Kenyan politics, where youthful leaders are increasingly asserting themselves in established parties.