Nairobi youth activist Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Gaucho, has responded sharply to Embakasi East MP Babu Owino following remarks made in a recent interview with journalist Alex Mwakideu, intensifying a growing political standoff.
In his statement, Gaucho directly challenged Babu’s account of their relationship, particularly claims that they first met in 2022 and had limited engagement before he allegedly facilitated his political breakthrough.
“The Governor in Waiting, The President in Waiting, The Party Leader in Waiting… has said he met me in 2022, and we have never spoken for more than 30 minutes, but he immediately gave me an ODM ticket,” Gaucho said.
He questioned why, if that were the case, the MP had not extended similar support to his long-time associates.
“If he has such powers why hasn't he done the same to his comrade friends whom he has known for years? Ama hao hawataki election certificates, nominations to assembly ama hata connection to jobs?” he posed.
Claims of Longstanding Political Ties
Gaucho maintained that his political journey did not begin in 2022, pointing to earlier connections within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and links to opposition leader Raila Odinga.
“Everyone knows I knew H.E Raila Odinga family in 2013, and my loyalty finally got rewarded in 2022 with the help of Hon. Junet Mohamed. That's the truth,” he stated.
Dispute Over Arrest and Bail Narrative
The activist also dismissed claims that Babu played a role in securing his release during a past arrest, terming the account misleading.
“If two people are arrested, how can one mfungwa release the other when both of them wako ndani? Hizo ni story za jaba,” Gaucho said.
“It is Raila who paid both our bail money.”
Criticism Over Public Disclosure
Gaucho further criticised what he described as the public airing of private support, arguing that such actions go against the culture of solidarity among youth from informal settlements.
“Sisi wanaghetto are used to helping each other and celebrating together… but no matter the disagreement we never go to podcasts or TV to expose Mpesa messages of those we have helped,” he said.