Babu Owino Declares Nairobi Governor Bid, Defies ODM

Embakasi East MP Paul Ongili, popularly known as Babu Owino, has formally declared his intention to vie for the Nairobi governor seat in 2027, setting the stage for what could be one of the most unpredictable political contests in the capital's history.

In a defiant statement that has sent shockwaves through Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ranks, Babu said he would run regardless of whether the party endorses him, signalling a potential split with his political mentor, Raila Odinga.

"I am sure I will not get the ODM ticket to vie for Nairobi Governor in 2027. Sakaja was endorsed by Raila at Bomas during the AUC prayer meeting. I know I will not get the ODM ticket, but I will still respect Raila as my political godfather."

— Babu Owino, Kameme TV Interview

The announcement comes barely weeks after Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria and veteran journalist Tony Gachoka also declared their candidacies, turning the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial race into a crowded and fiercely contested affair.

A Politician Like No Other

Babu Owino has built a reputation as one of Kenya's most polarising politicians—loved by his supporters for his unfiltered rhetoric and street credibility, yet reviled by critics who view him as reckless and unpredictable.

His rise to prominence began during his days as Student Organisation of Nairobi University (SONU) chairman, where he cultivated a fiery brand of activism that resonated with disaffected youth but often landed him in legal trouble.

Since his election to Parliament in 2017, Babu has remained a lightning rod for controversy, earning both praise and condemnation for his combative style and willingness to defy political norms.

Now, he is betting that the same qualities that have made him a household name can propel him to City Hall.

The Nairobi Factor: No Governor Gets Re-Elected

Political analysts note that Nairobi has never re-elected a governor under devolution, a fact that should give incumbent Johnson Sakaja sleepless nights.

Mike Sonko, Evans Kidero, and acting governor Ann Kananu all failed to secure re-election, reflecting what observers describe as the city's deeply volatile and unforgiving political culture.

"In Nairobi, incumbents have no advantage. The city loves to vote out its governors," said political commentator Martin Andati. "Babu's candidacy taps into that frustration."

Sakaja, who was endorsed by Raila during a prayer meeting for the African Union Commission chairmanship bid at Bomas of Kenya, is widely seen as vulnerable. His administration has faced criticism over garbage collection, road infrastructure, and transparency in county finances.

However, Sakaja retains significant political capital, with backing from both ODM and sections of the Kenya Kwanza alliance—an unusual coalition that could complicate Babu's path to victory.

The Crowded Field: Who's Running for City Hall?

The race for Nairobi governor is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in Kenya's political history.

Moses Kuria announced his candidacy on October 12, 2025, citing "Nairobi's decay, filth, and incompetence" as his primary motivation for entering the race. The former Cabinet Secretary, a shrewd political operator with deep pockets, is expected to mount a formidable campaign