Babu Owino stated that his relationship with Raila Odinga remains stable, despite his recent declaration of himself as the opposition leader.
On Friday, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino clarified that he remains on good terms with Azimio leader Raila Odinga, despite his recent declaration as the new opposition leader.
In an interview with TV47, Owino stated that Raila Odinga continues to be his mentor and party leader, even though he aspires to eventually succeed him. Owino explained that he would formally assume the role of opposition leader once Raila takes up the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Babu Owino reiterated that there is no harm in him stepping into the role of opposition leader, despite concerns about his youth and political experience.
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Babu Owino clarified, “Raila has been my political leader, and I respect him deeply. I have worked under him, for him, and with him, and he remains my leader.”
He continued, “Raila has done his best for this nation and fought tirelessly, regardless of what critics might say. We cannot ignore his contributions.”
The MP further explained that declaring himself as the opposition leader was a preparatory step before he formally succeeds Raila Odinga as the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.
The lawmaker asserted that he has gained sufficient experience to take on Odinga’s role.
“Experience is not solely a function of age; it comes from the challenges you have faced,” he said, addressing critics.
“I have lived for 35 years, faced numerous challenges, and found solutions, while others with more years might have encountered fewer challenges,” he added.
On July 10, Babu Owino announced himself as Kenya’s new opposition leader, asserting that he would take on the role previously held by Odinga to address the perceived shortcomings of the current regime.
“I will continue fulfilling the role of opposition, ensuring checks and balances on this ineffective government, in line with the doctrine of separation of powers and checks and balances proposed by Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu in the 17th century,” he stated.
“We have agreed to provide people with the opportunity to be heard, express their concerns, and highlight the grievances affecting our country today so that we can find lasting solutions,” he added.
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Babu Owino stated that his relationship with Raila Odinga remains stable, despite his recent declaration of himself as the opposition leader.