Embakasi East Member of Parliament Paul Ongili popularly known as Babu Owino has emerged as the most preferred successor to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, according to a new opinion poll offering a snapshot of how Kenyans view the future leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) amid succession conversations across the political landscape.
Research firm Infotrak survey shows that a significant number of respondents see Babu Owino as the strongest heir to Raila’s political influence, pointing to his visibility, outspoken style, and appeal to younger voters.
33 Per Cent of the respondents asked to name who they believe is best placed to take over from Raila Odinga as the face and leader of the movement picked Ongili.
Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, currently the ODM party leader, came a distant second with 10 per cent. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga followed with 7 per cent, while Siaya Governor James Orengo garnered 4 per cent. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo each received 2 per cent support. Treasury CS John Mbadi, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and EALA MP Winnie Odinga each attracted 1 per cent.
The study was conducted through quantitative interviews using computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI). Infotrak sampled 1,000 adults drawn from all 47 counties and the country’s eight regions.
The regional breakdown of the results paints an interesting picture of Owino’s support base. Nairobi recorded the highest backing for him at 49 per cent, followed by Western Kenya at 35 per cent. In Rift Valley, 33 per cent of respondents viewed him as Raila’s best successor, while in Nyanza, traditionally considered Raila’s stronghold, 32 per cent shared the same view.
The study comes at a time when the Embakasi East MP has been facing opposition from some of the late Raila's stalwarts over his perceived influenced amid claims he would quit the party in his quest for the Nairobi Governor seat come 2027.
The turmoi saw Oburu convene a meeting with Babu to assure him that he would not be sidelined, pledging that he would secure the ODM ticket for the Nairobi gubernatorial race in 2027, provided he wins the party nominations.
In a televised interview, Oburu noted that mistreating Babu would be beating the party's commitment to nurture fresh blood in the country's political leadership.
"We are seeking strong, visionary, and dynamic leaders, and Babu fits that profile. If he earns it through the proper process, ODM will support him,” Oburu said.
The Rise of Babu Owino.
Babu Owino, is a name that resonates deeply within Kenya’s political landscape. He is a symbol of resilience, transformation, and bold leadership. The MP's journey from the depths of poverty in the slums of Nyalenda in Kisumu to becoming one of the most influential young legislators in Kenya is nothing short of inspirational.
The Embakasi East Mp, was raised in a single-room house by a struggling single mother who brewed chang’aa to provide for her family.
Speaking to Julisha Media recently, the MP revealed that his childhood was defined by hardship. He recounts going to school barefoot and sometimes hungry, but what he never lacked was determination and a fierce belief in the power of education.
Babu’s academic journey is a proof to his discipline and intellect. He earned a First Class Honours degree in Actuarial Science from the University of Nairobi, and later pursued a second degree in Law from the same university. At UoN, he rose to become one of the longest-serving student leaders, known for his sharp intellect, fiery speeches, and unwavering defense of students' rights.
From the student council, Babu transitioned into mainstream politics. In 2017, he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, a position he retained in 2022. Despite facing stiff competition and being a relatively young entrant, Babu’s grassroots connection and passion for service resonated with the youth and the marginalized.
And besides his lustre career, nevertheless, he has also been involved in highly dramatic events. With an accidental shooting incident almost tainting his career, but just like Babu says- Man is to error. He learnt and stepped-up, a commendable feat considering the crop of leaders we have in the country- who dodge and corrupt their way out.
Over the years, Babu Owino has become one of the most vocal and active MPs in the National Assembly.
Civic engagement platforms have praised his accessibility, legislative contributions, and development record. Under his leadership, Embakasi East has seen unprecedented improvement in education infrastructure, bursary distribution, and access to digital learning tools.
Babu Owino’s story is not just about rising from poverty; it is about the transformative power of education, the courage to stand by one's convictions, and the ability to admit faults and grow. He remains a symbol of hope for many young Kenyans who see in him a reflection of their struggles and aspirations.
In Babu's own words: “Where you start does not define where you will end up. With God, grit, and grace, anything is possible.”
