Speaking during a radio interview on Friday, July 25, 2025, Babu revealed that he has been silently suffering inside the party.
He did not share specific details but made it clear that he feels disrespected and sidelined. Despite this, he insisted that he will not publicly attack the party leadership because of the deep respect he holds for Raila, whom he called “Baba.”
“I am an ODM MP, and I respect the party. Sometimes I’m disrespected in the party, but I can’t speak publicly because of the respect I have for Baba. That’s the respect of a son to a father,” Babu said.
The young MP, known for his strong voice and bold remarks, added that no one should look down on him. He said he is smart, capable, and ready to pursue his political dreams no matter the obstacles.
There has been speculation that Babu is interested in running for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election. His recent comments suggest he may be considering running as an independent candidate if he is denied the ODM ticket.
“People have been elected before without ODM or UDA. If God wants me to lead, I will lead. The voter is the one who decides, not the party. A party is just a vehicle. Many people get tickets and still lose,” he added.
Babu’s remarks come at a time when the ODM party is facing internal divisions. Recently, ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna also expressed his frustration with how the party is being run.
Sifuna said that powerful individuals within ODM were making it difficult for him to carry out his duties.
Sifuna also criticized the party’s agreement with President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), saying it goes against his personal beliefs. He said the deal had created confusion in the party and made it hard for him to speak freely.
“If the party ever decides not to field a presidential candidate in 2027 and instead supports Ruto, I will resign,” Sifuna said during a television interview.
The disagreements have raised questions about the direction ODM is taking, especially as the country moves closer to the next general election.
Some members are unhappy with Raila Odinga’s decision to work with President Ruto, while others support the move.
So far, the ODM party leadership has not officially responded to the concerns raised by Babu Owino and Edwin Sifuna.
Political observers say the party needs to address the issues quickly to avoid losing support, especially in key urban areas like Nairobi.
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