Recognized as the top MP in Nairobi, he is seen as a leader who not only speaks out on issues but takes action, making him a favorite among more than three-quarters of the city’s population.
Babu Owino’s popularity isn’t solely based on his political connections; he has earned a reputation as a “man of the people” through his active engagement across Nairobi and his own constituency.
His approach to leadership—marked by frequent interactions with residents, hands-on involvement in community projects, and efforts to uplift underprivileged groups—has resonated strongly with Nairobi’s middle and working classes.
Babu is a vocal advocate for education, often helping students access resources, and has taken a hard stance against policies that would hurt low-income residents.
The anticipation around Embakasi East MP Babu Owino is building, with many Nairobians speculating he will emerge as a frontrunner in the race for Nairobi Governor if he decides to run.
As a loyal ODM party member and close ally of its leader Raila Odinga, Babu has a strong foundation of support, especially among the city’s youth and women. His appeal could pose a serious challenge to incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja, who has faced criticism for allegedly mishandling county funds and prioritizing personal gains over public interests.
Growing up in the Nyalenda slums of Kisumu, Dr. Babu has a unique understanding of the challenges faced by the city’s less affluent residents, which many believe is at the core of his commitment to bettering their lives.
In contrast, Governor Sakaja has been entangled in controversies involving alleged misuse of county funds, often accused of spending taxpayer money on luxurious lifestyles. Recent reports of Sakaja’s purchase of a billion-shilling property in Singapore have only intensified public distrust, with many Nairobians viewing him as detached from their day-to-day struggles.
In a recent survey conducted by the Nairobi Opinion Shapers group, Babu Owino received overwhelming support, with more than three-quarters of Nairobi residents saying they would back him in a governor’s race.
His accomplishments as a lawmaker in Embakasi East have left many believing that his impact could be even greater if extended to the county level. For many, Babu Owino represents hope for a fresh start, and some even speculate that his political journey could eventually lead him to the nation’s highest office.