Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has defended Winnie Odinga’s decision to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat in the 2027 General Election.
Babu Owino affirmed that he would not fight the daughter of his late political mentor, Raila Odinga, over their separate political ambitions.
Babu argued that Winnie should be allowed to pursue her political dream while he seeks to become Nairobi governor in the next General Election.
“I will be the last person to fight his child just because I must be the governor of Nairobi,” Babu stated during a political gathering on Saturday, October 18, 2026.
The legislator further explained that his respect for the late former Prime Minister extended to his family, insisting that pursuing his own ambitions would not require him to turn against Winnie.
His clarification on his political stand comes two days after Winnie declared her intention to contest the Nairobi Senate seat, currently held by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.
Babu Owino Calls on Voters to Decide
Babu maintained that his gubernatorial ambitions should not be interpreted as a reason to oppose Winnie’s entry into the Senate race.
He urged supporters to let voters decide who should represent them, arguing that Nairobi residents had previously elected leaders from different communities.
The Embakasi East MP cited the election of Sifuna and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja as examples of voters choosing leaders from different backgrounds.
“Let her pursue her dreams, and Babu should pursue his dreams. You are the ones who will choose. After all, you chose Sifuna, who is a Luhya, and you also chose Sakaja, who is a Luhya,” Babu Owino said.
Also Read: Winnie Odinga Declares Bid for Nairobi Senate Seat
Winnie Odinga’s Nairobi Senate Bid
The East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member Winnie Odinga announced her intention to contest the Nairobi senatorial seat on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
Winnie made the declaration at the first anniversary commemoration of her father at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County.
Winnie linked her decision to Sifuna’s pursuit of a higher political office, saying she had identified an opportunity to represent Nairobi residents in the Senate.
“Let it not be a rumor. I will contest the Senate seat of Nairobi County,” Winnie declared.
She also called on young Kenyans to prepare to contest elective positions, including governorships, parliamentary seats and county assembly positions.
Winnie emphasized she intended to pursue her ambitions alongside young people seeking leadership opportunities.
Also Read: Who Will Succeed Edwin Sifuna as Nairobi Senator in 2027? Full List of Aspirants
Who Winnie Could Face in the 2027 Senate Race
Winnie’s declaration adds to the field of aspirants seeking to replace Sifuna if he leaves the seat for higher office.
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, is among those who have declared interest in the Nairobi senatorial position.
Jalang’o announced his bid earlier in 2026 and said he intends to pursue the seat through ODM or a political arrangement involving the party.
Former Makadara MP Reuben Ndolo has also expressed interest in returning to elective politics by contesting the seat.
Musician and businessperson William Karuga Kimani, popularly known as KRG The Don, is another aspirant linked to the race.
The Don said he intends to contest on the National Economic Development Party (NEDP) ticket.
In addition, Lawyer Cecil Miller, associated with the Roots Party of Kenya, has also expressed interest in the position.
United Opposition youth leader Ken Babu is among the other aspirants reported to be considering the Nairobi Senate contest.
Further, nominated Senator Crystal Asige has been mentioned in discussions surrounding possible contenders, although she has not publicly confirmed a bid for the elected seat.
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