ODM’s acting leader Oburu Oginga has assured Babu Owino that he will receive the party ticket for Nairobi’s gubernatorial race if he wins the 2027 nominations. Speaking on Ramogi TV, Oburu addressed Babu’s growing concerns that the party might sideline him, saying, “I don’t see anything wrong with Babu. I hear things are bothering him, which he thinks ODM might deny him the ticket to vie for Nairobi governor. I don’t know why he feels that way. There is no reason he can’t get the ticket if he wins the nominations.”
Babu has recently expressed doubts over ODM’s commitment to his political future, citing mixed signals from party leadership. His concerns date back to February when the late Raila Odinga appeared to offer a soft endorsement of incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja, calling him a “young man with vision.” Despite his loyalty and active role within ODM, Babu has feared that the party might frustrate his ambitions.
Will ODM Support Babu Owino Fully in 2027?
Oburu, who is also Siaya Senator, dismissed these concerns and encouraged Babu to remain calm, emphasizing that the party values internal competition. “Let him not run away. We want even the Nairobi governor’s seat to be openly contested. He should not panic because we cannot deny him the ticket yet he is our son and a long-time member of ODM,” he said. Oburu added that ODM welcomes strong candidates and will not impose anyone on voters, noting, “ODM is open to all its members. We want credible, energetic, and visionary leaders to step forward. Babu is one of them, and if he proves himself in nominations, the party will stand with him.”
Oburu also revealed plans to personally meet Babu to address his concerns and strengthen party unity. “I know I will find him. I have already sent word and emissaries to arrange a meeting. I will talk to him and tell him to relax. There is no need to panic; everything is still fine,” he stated. This reassurance comes as ODM restructures its leadership following Raila Odinga’s death, with younger members seeking bigger roles within the party.
Can Babu Owino Win Nairobi Governor Without ODM?
Political analysts caution that Babu’s strongest path to victory is through ODM or the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP). Saboti MP Caleb Amisi explained that Nairobi voters often cast ballots based on party loyalty rather than individual popularity, making it difficult for candidates running under smaller parties to succeed. Amisi emphasized that Babu’s political influence is tied to ODM and its supporters, and stepping away from the party could weaken his chances against incumbent Sakaja in 2027.
With Oburu’s reassurance and ODM’s open nomination process, Babu Owino’s political future in Nairobi appears firmly tied to the party, leaving him positioned for a competitive race if he secures the nominations.
By Yockshard Enyendi