ODM MP MP Babu Owino Addresses Video Showing Him Attacking Raila Odinga

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has dismissed a viral video suggesting he attacked ODM leader Raila Odinga, saying it was doctored to create a false impression.

Speaking through his social media pages on Saturday evening, Owino explained that the video had been edited by political rivals to mislead Kenyans.

He went ahead to share the full version of the recording, insisting that his words were twisted and taken out of context.

According to the MP, the clip was taken during a rally in Suna East in 2024 when Raila was campaigning for the African Union (AU) Chairperson position.

Owino stated that the original speech targeted President William Ruto’s administration, not Raila.

“In the video I asked Baba to lead one more protest before leaving for the AU. My remarks were about Ruto’s high taxes, not Raila. Unfortunately, they cut and joined parts of the clip to make it look like I was attacking my party leader,” Owino said.

The lawmaker pointed out that he has been a consistent supporter of Raila and has never spoken ill ofhim, even when they disagreed on strategy. 

He maintained that the doctored video was part of a smear campaign designed to drive a wedge between him and the ODM leader.

In recent months, Owino has continued to criticize the Kenya Kwanza government, especially on the cost of living and taxation.

This is despite a Memorandum of Understanding signed between ODM and UDA to work together on some national issues.

The MP has also been championing the Kenya Moja Movement, alongside leaders such as Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

The movement has positioned itself as a youthful voice pushing back against Ruto’s administration while mobilizing Kenyans who feel left out of government decisions.

With speculation mounting that Owino could vie for the Nairobi governor seat in 2027, political analysts say the doctored video could be an attempt to weaken his standing within ODM and among Raila’s loyal supporters.

Owino, however, has reassured his supporters that his loyalty to Raila remains intact.

“I will never insult Baba. My fight is with the Kenya Kwanza regime, not with the man who has always defended Kenyans,” he said.

The MP called on Kenyans to remain vigilant against misinformation, noting that fake content has become a common tool in politics.