Babu Owino declares 2032 presidential bid, says he’s 'overqualified' to lead Kenya

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has announced his intention to run for president in the 2032 general election, declaring himself the most qualified candidate to take over the country’s top leadership.

Citing his track record, energy, and strong connection with ordinary Kenyans, Babu argued that he is best placed to steer the nation into the future.

Speaking on Radio 47’s Breakfast 47 show, the outspoken legislator stated that after 2027, he will not seek any position lower than the presidency, signalling a shift in his political ambitions.

“I’m overqualified to be Kenya’s President in 2032. I have the passion, energy, and political acumen. My followers are urging me to prove to the world that I can be the President,’ he said.

Nairobi governor

The vocal MP hinted that before 2032, he is likely to vie for Nairobi governor in 2027, a decision he said will be made official by the end of 2025 or early January 2026.

“In 2027, Nairobians know Babu is the incoming governor. I’ll declare my bid by January 2025. For now, I’m focused on the work,” he added.

Babu said his confidence stems from tangible results rather than empty promises, pointing to his track record in Embakasi East, including the annual issuance of 25,000 bursaries, as evidence of effective leadership.

The ODM MP emphasised that his style of leadership is driven by action, not rhetoric, and argued that the challenges facing Nairobi and the country demand bold, transparent, and accountable governance.

Prudent NG-CDF management

He attributed his success to prudent management of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) and his efforts to seek opportunities beyond Kenya’s borders for the benefit of his constituents.

“The NG-CDF for Embakasi East is equal to that of other constituencies. The difference is how you manage the funds and how far you’re willing to go, even beyond our borders, to seek projects and opportunities for your people,” Babu Owino explained.

The two-term MP also reflected on the values that shape his leadership, drawing inspiration from his upbringing in the Nyalenda slums of Kisumu.

He said growing up in poverty gave him a deep understanding of the daily struggles faced by low-income families and fuelled his commitment to driving meaningful change.

“I came from the slums of Nyalenda, and when I was elected, I promised my people I would work for them. I understand life in the slums and the challenges it comes with; that’s why I go the extra mile,” Babu said.

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Nairobi woes

Babu further criticised the current state of Nairobi under Governor Johnson Sakaja, especially the poor waste management and drainage systems.

“There’s a problem in Nairobi; garbage is everywhere. Everything the governor touches turns into trash,” Babu said.

He also criticised what he termed the unfair exclusion of private school learners from the county’s school feeding programme, arguing that many of these children also face hunger and should not be overlooked simply because of the type of school they attend.

“Why would you leave out those children in private schools suffering from hunger while their parents are also Kenyans grappling with harsh economic times?” Babu Ownio asked.

The MP also urged young leaders to rise to the occasion and serve with fairness and focus.

He said the country’s future depends on leaders who understand the daily struggles of ordinary citizens and are willing to go the extra mile to improve their lives.