Babu Owino Questions New ODM Leadership Appointments, Calls for Protests Against High Cost of Living
Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino sparked controversy during the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) 20th anniversary celebrations in Mombasa, openly questioning recent leadership appointments and vowing to mobilise protests against the rising cost of living.
The event, held on Friday, November 14, was marked by pomp and ceremony as party members gathered to commemorate two decades of ODM’s existence and reflect on its future following the passing of former leader Raila Odinga. However, Owino’s fiery speech drew attention to internal divisions within the party.
Criticism of Leadership Appointments
Owino challenged the confirmation of Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga as ODM’s new party leader, questioning why he had not been considered for any senior role.
“My Secretary General (Edwin Sifuna) allowed me a few more minutes because I know the bosses will not give me such a platform again,” Owino said to cheers from the crowd.
“Let me speak because when Raila was alive, I used to speak for one hour. To Baba the great, we want to tell our people to rise with courage, strength and conviction because we know we are stronger than our oppressors.”
“I saw the other day some ODM members were given new positions. I want to ask you, didn’t Babu Owino suit any seat? I want to confirm here that I am very capable of becoming party leader,” he declared.
Alongside Oburu’s appointment, ODM also approved Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga as Deputy Organising Secretary, while other positions were filled by senior party members.
Call for Protests
In one of his boldest remarks, Owino vowed to continue leading demonstrations if the cost of living and education expenses remain high.
“I want to assure Raila wherever he is, if the cost of living goes up, we will stage protests. If cost of education goes up, we will stage protests whether they like it or not,” he said.
The MP’s comments echoed his history of organising protests against government policies, positioning himself as a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Cracks Within ODM
The anniversary event also highlighted divisions within ODM over its relationship with President William Ruto’s government. Winnie Odinga, daughter of the late Raila Odinga, questioned members positioning themselves to manage ties with Kenya Kwanza, insisting that such a role had always belonged to her father.
“We need to go back to the people and have a meeting and see who the people want to pick to manage the same relationship,” Winnie Odinga said.
Her remarks underscored growing tensions between party hardliners who oppose collaboration with government and moderates who view engagement as pragmatic.
Looking Ahead
Analysts say Owino’s speech reflects broader frustrations among younger ODM members who feel excluded from senior leadership roles. His call for protests also signals continued opposition pressure on the Kenya Kwanza administration over economic challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
As ODM navigates leadership changes following Raila Odinga’s passing, the party faces the dual challenge of maintaining unity while preparing for the 2027 General Election. The anniversary celebrations, intended to showcase strength and continuity, instead revealed the internal debates shaping ODM’s future direction.
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Babu Owino Questions New ODM Leadership Appointments, Calls for Protests Against High Cost of Living
