Youth Takeover? Babu Owino Says ODM Needs Energy, Not Age!
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Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has openly questioned the motives of Oburu Oginga, suggesting that the veteran politician is eyeing power beyond the party’s top positions.
Speaking to supporters, Owino said that while Oburu publicly claims not to be interested in the presidency or deputy presidency, his pursuit of power signals an undisclosed agenda.
He says he is chasing power, but we don’t know what this power entails,” Owino said, raising eyebrows across party ranks.
He further drew comparisons between leadership styles and generational approaches within the party, referring to the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga fondly known as Baba.
“Baba was old in body but young in mind. After Baba has gone, we need to ask ourselves do we need a younger Joshua or an older Joshua?
Do we need an energetic Joshua or a tired Joshua?” Owino said, suggesting that youthful energy should define the party’s future.
Owino did not hold back in advocating for a generational shift, calling for young leaders to take charge of ODM while experienced figures like Oburu act as trustees.
“Oburu should leave the party to young people like Babu Owino to be the party leader and him to be the trustee,” Owino asserted.
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He went further to express personal ambition, stating unequivocally that he considers himself highly qualified for the role of party leader.
Political analysts say Owino’s remarks could escalate existing tensions within ODM, where the leadership tussle has been simmering for months.
The MP’s assertion of overqualification adds fuel to the ongoing debate about whether experience or youthful dynamism should steer the party forward.
Party insiders indicate that the remarks are unlikely to go unnoticed, with discussions on leadership succession expected to intensify in upcoming party meetings.
Owino’s public challenge comes at a time when ODM is gearing up for strategic political maneuvers ahead of the next general elections, raising questions about internal cohesion and unity.
While some party members hail Owino’s call for fresh leadership as timely, others caution that internal rifts could weaken ODM’s position on the national stage.
Regardless, the message from Owino is clear: a new generation is ready to take the reins, and veteran leaders may need to reconsider their roles in shaping the party’s future.
