Babu Owino Says He Will Fire Gaucho and Restructure Nairobi Leadership If Elected Governor in 2027

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has made strong political statements indicating that he would carry out a major restructuring of Nairobi’s leadership if he wins the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial election.

His remarks suggest a possible major overhaul at City Hall, with several current officials potentially losing their positions under his administration.

Speaking during an interview on NTV Kenya on Monday, May 4, Babu Owino suggested that his leadership would be focused on professionalism, competence, and strict standards in public service.

He implied that individuals who do not meet what he considers the required qualifications or seriousness for public office would not survive in his government.

Controversial Remarks on Gaucho’s Position

One of the most notable statements from the MP targeted Calvince Okoth, popularly known as Calvince Okoth (Gaucho), who was recently appointed to the Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital board.

Babu Owino openly questioned the suitability of such appointments, arguing that technical and professional institutions should be guided by experienced experts rather than political or informal figures.

He stated that if he becomes governor, Gaucho’s position would automatically be terminated. In his words, he questioned how professionals like doctors—who undergo many years of rigorous training—could be supervised or directed by individuals he believes lack the same level of expertise.

Babu further emphasized his point with sharp criticism, saying that decision-making in sensitive sectors like health should not be influenced by individuals he considers unqualified, adding that such mismatches would weaken service delivery in hospitals and public institutions.

Promises to Address Security and “Goonism” in Nairobi

Beyond administrative changes, Babu Owino also addressed the issue of security in Nairobi. He accused the current leadership of failing to control rising insecurity and alleged the existence of organized groups commonly referred to as “goons” who are used for political or social intimidation.

He claimed that many young people are being exploited due to lack of opportunities, stating that while children of influential politicians often secure stable jobs, ordinary youths are sometimes paid small amounts—such as KSh 1,000—to engage in violent or disruptive activities against fellow citizens.

According to him, this situation reflects deeper inequality in society and poor governance, which he says he would prioritize fixing if elected governor.

Criticism of Nairobi–National Government Cooperation Deal

Babu Owino also strongly criticized the cooperation agreement between the national government led by William Ruto and the Nairobi City County Government under Governor Johnson Sakaja.

He described the agreement as illegal and procedurally flawed, arguing that it did not follow proper legal requirements. He specifically pointed out that public participation should have been conducted before the agreement was signed, not after.

According to him, bypassing public participation undermines transparency and violates governance procedures. He insisted that if elected governor, he would revoke the agreement entirely, stating that it cannot stand under proper legal scrutiny.

Claims About County Leadership and Governance

Babu further argued that by entering into such a deal with the national government, Governor Sakaja has indirectly admitted that the county is struggling to manage its own affairs independently. He suggested that this situation reflects weak leadership at the county level.

He even went as far as urging the current governor to consider stepping aside, implying that Nairobi requires stronger and more independent leadership to manage its growing challenges.

Growing Political Tensions Ahead of 2027

These remarks highlight the increasingly competitive and heated political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections.

Babu Owino’s statements position him as a candidate promising strict governance reforms, institutional restructuring, and tougher accountability measures if he assumes office.

As the race for Nairobi’s top seat begins to take shape, such statements are likely to spark further political debate, especially regarding governance standards, youth employment, security, and the relationship between county and national governments.

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