Governor Johnson Sakaja faced a challenging moment in Homa Bay County when he was heckled at a public event, attended by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The crowd interrupted Sakaja’s speech, shouting “Sema Babu Owino!” (meaning “Say Babu Owino”) in support of Babu Owino, the Embakasi East MP who has been vocal about his plans to challenge Sakaja in the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial elections.
Owino’s popularity among the youth and his outspoken political style have made him a significant figure in Nairobi’s political scene, intensifying his rivalry with Sakaja, whom he has previously labeled as a “placeholder” governor.
The public display in Homa Bay signals not only the strong grassroots support for Babu Owino in Raila’s Luo-dominated regions but also the complex dynamics within the ODM party, as both politicians align with Raila’s Azimio coalition.
The incident reflects Babu’s rising influence in ODM as he eyes a broader political role. His ambitious approach, charisma, and bold rhetoric have resonated with many youth and urban voters, creating momentum behind his potential gubernatorial bid, which he claims will be a “walkover” against Sakaja.
This growing tension has implications for ODM’s internal unity as it prepares for the 2027 elections, with Babu Owino rallying a younger demographic that resonates with his confidence and assertiveness.
As the political landscape unfolds, Sakaja will likely need to strategize effectively to counter Owino’s appeal among Nairobi voters and within Raila’s strongholds.
