MP Says Party Is Repeating 2022 Tim Wanyonyi Strategy
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has accused his party, the Orange Democratic Movement, of planning to treat him the same way it treated Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi during the 2022 elections.
Speaking in a media interview on Tuesday, January 20, 2025, Owino said he has reliable information that ODM insiders want to delay him with promises and later deny him the party ticket.
He said the plan is to assure him of ODM support, then change the agreement four months before the election by claiming that Nairobi’s governor seat has been reserved for the United Democratic Alliance.
“They want to promise me the ticket, then change the deal at the last minute and say Nairobi belongs to UDA,” Owino said.
Tim Wanyonyi Case Still Fresh
Owino said a similar move was used against Tim Wanyonyi in 2022.
At the time, ODM shifted support to Jubilee candidate Polycarp Igathe, forcing Wanyonyi to defend his parliamentary seat instead of contesting for governor.
Owino said this experience has made him cautious.
He added that he does not want to fall into the same trap.
Why Owino Wants ODM Leadership
Babu Owino said this is why he wants to become ODM party leader.
He said leading the party would allow him to secure his own ticket without depending on shifting political deals.
He also cited a recent opinion poll that ranked him as the Luo political kingpin with 33 percent support, ahead of Oburu Odinga.
According to Owino, this support shows he is ready to compete and win the Nairobi governor race.
Call for National Delegates Conference
Owino repeated his call for ODM to hold a National Delegates Conference to choose new party leadership.
He said leadership should not be delayed until leaders reach very advanced age.
He urged party members to reflect on whether waiting until someone is 70 or 80 years old to lead is healthy for the party.
Warning Over Delegate Selection
Owino also warned that ODM leaders may try to invite only friendly delegates to vote.
He said such a move would be unfair and could force other members to organise a parallel conference.
He promised that his team will carefully check the delegate list to ensure it represents the whole country.
Raila Odinga Legacy
Owino said even when Raila Odinga was alive, it was clear who his natural successors were.
He said the spirit of Raila Odinga supports him and leaders such as Winnie Odinga and Edwin Sifuna.
He added that if ODM leadership chooses to sell out the party, alternative political arrangements will be offered to Kenyans.
Conclusion
Babu Owino believes ODM is trying to block his political future.
He says he will not allow the party to repeat the Tim Wanyonyi mistake on him.
As ODM prepares for future elections, Owino’s remarks show that leadership battles and party loyalty will continue to shape Kenya’s opposition politics.