Embakasi East MP Babu Owino opposes Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga’s continued leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as he advocates for a leadership change within the party.
In a recent interview, Owino reiterated his call for a complete overhaul of ODM’s leadership structure and urged the convening of a National Delegates Conference (NDC). He argued that this conference should empower party members to establish a new direction and elect fresh leadership after over two decades under the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Owino identified Raila Odinga as his last political mentor and the only leader he recognized within ODM. He emphasized that although Raila has passed, his ideals and vision must endure. He believes the party now faces a critical juncture that necessitates selecting a strong and visionary successor, rather than opting for weak or imposed leadership.
Owino utilized biblical analogies to strengthen his argument, comparing Raila Odinga to Moses, who led his people to Mount Nebo before handing leadership to Joshua, not to Aaron, who was of the same age. In this analogy, Oburu represents Aaron, while Owino positions himself as a younger Joshua, advocating for younger leadership within ODM.
He asserted that ODM must determine its commitment to transformative leadership or risk deviating from that path. He dismissed claims by some leaders that they act on dreams or spiritual revelations, arguing that effective leadership should be founded on clear vision, courage, and action.
Owino stressed that the younger generation within ODM holds the responsibility to succeed veteran leaders who have fulfilled their roles in the struggle. He contended that young leaders are better equipped to tackle contemporary challenges such as the high cost of living, overtaxation, unemployment, access to quality education, and equitable healthcare.
He maintained that leadership renewal is crucial to decisively address these issues and ensure the party remains relevant to the aspirations of young Kenyans.
Criticizing ODM’s current trajectory, Owino claimed the party has strayed from Raila Odinga’s core principles. He argued that ODM was built on strong ideological foundations during Raila’s leadership and did not survive by seeking coalitions but by attracting others to its vision.
Owino emphasized that ODM’s leadership must adhere to its original principles rather than compromise its identity, as evidenced by recent coalition pursuits with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Addressing concerns regarding resistance to youthful leadership, Owino acknowledged discomfort among senior party figures regarding the rise of young leaders. He insisted that age should not undermine credibility, asserting that leadership should be evaluated based on vision, integrity, and performance rather than years.
Owino clarified that his ambitions extend beyond regional politics. While he recognizes his strong support in the Nyanza region, he aspires to become a national figure capable of transforming lives across the country, irrespective of region or background.
He stressed that true leadership demands patience, discipline, and resilience, noting that even biblical leaders like David faced rejection before achieving greatness.
Through his statements, Owino positioned himself as a catalyst for generational change within ODM, advocating for the party’s renewal to maintain its influence in Kenya’s political landscape.
