In a bold and strategic political move, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has officially declared his interest in succeeding Raila Odinga as the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Owino, who has been a vocal and active member of ODM, stated his intentions to lead the party with a vision aimed at capturing power and transforming Kenya’s governance in the 2027 elections.
For over fifty years, Raila Odinga has been a cornerstone of Kenya’s political landscape, fighting for liberation, multi-party democracy, and social justice. Owino paid tribute to Odinga’s unwavering dedication to Kenya’s political progress, recounting his leadership alongside key figures like James Orengo, Martha Karua, and Prof. Anyang Nyong’o.
He emphasized Odinga’s contributions to repealing Section 2A in 1992, ushering in multiparty democracy, and the 2010 constitution, which laid the foundation for Kenya’s current political framework.
As Odinga contemplates a new role as Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Owino believes it is time for the party to embrace fresh leadership to steer the ODM towards the future. Owino expressed full support for Odinga’s potential transition to the AU, recognizing his Pan-African vision and the need for his expertise to strengthen African cooperation.
With Odinga stepping away from his local political duties, the ODM leader’s position cannot remain vacant, and Owino is positioning himself as the ideal candidate to take over.
He stressed the importance of revitalizing the party’s grassroots engagements, winning a clear parliamentary majority, and mentoring young leaders who now form the majority of Kenya’s population.
Owino’s declaration comes with a promise to rejuvenate ODM and carry forward Raila’s legacy of political liberation, while also focusing on achieving electoral justice and economic liberation for the country.
He expressed his belief that he is the right person to lead the party to victory over President William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
As the ODM Central Management Committee deliberates on who will succeed Raila Odinga, Babu Owino has made it clear that he is ready to take up the mantle and ensure the party’s continued success and impact in Kenya’s political landscape.
