Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has criticized former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for reportedly supporting Governor Johnson Sakaja’s bid for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 elections.
Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, January 16, Babu expressed disappointment, claiming his loyalty to Raila had not been acknowledged or appreciated despite years of standing by the opposition leader.
He questioned Raila’s decision, pointing out that Sakaja had never genuinely supported Odinga’s political ambitions since his 2007 presidential run up to the 2022 elections.
Babu accused Sakaja of shifting political allegiances for personal gain, stating that Sakaja’s current support for Raila’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson seat was not genuine. “Sakaja has never truly supported Raila.
In 2007, he backed Kibaki, in 2013 and 2017, he supported Uhuru Kenyatta, and in 2022, he was with William Ruto. His recent support is just a political game,” Babu remarked.
He went on to claim that Sakaja had not made any sacrifices for Raila in the past and dismissed the governor’s recent involvement in Raila’s political ambitions as mere political posturing.
“Even his trip to Ethiopia is just a show. Raila should be cautious and not fall for this,” Babu added.
The outspoken MP voiced his dissatisfaction with Raila’s growing closeness to Sakaja, urging the former Prime Minister to reconsider and instead back him for Nairobi leadership.
Babu did not hold back his criticism of Sakaja’s leadership, accusing the governor of poor performance and failing Nairobi residents.
“Not even Kidero or Mike Sonko performed as poorly as Sakaja. Look at the current state of Nairobi! The city is in ruins, and no one even knows where the revenue collected from Nairobi goes,” Babu complained.
This is not the first time Babu Owino has openly expressed frustrations with Raila and the ODM party.
In December 2023, Babu threatened to leave the party, citing mistreatment and lack of support from senior party members. He claimed he faced constant criticism and threats despite his dedication to the opposition cause.
“I campaigned for Raila, but when I refused to support a government that oppresses Kenyans, I was accused of being rebellious and threatened with expulsion from the party.
I’m not afraid of being kicked out of ODM. If they want me out, so be it. Is there a problem with that?” Babu stated.
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