Babu Owino Hints at ‘Major Announcement’ as New Poll Names him Raila’s Successor
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has reacted to a new opinion poll that places him as the leading perceived successor to opposition chief Raila Odinga, hailing the findings as a reflection of his political record and hinting at a major announcement in the coming days.
The 38-year-old lawmaker welcomed the results of the Infotrak Research & Consulting survey, which ranked him ahead of several senior Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) figures in a question assessing who Kenyans believe could take over the opposition mantle.
Speaking to TNX Africa, Owino dismissed criticism from sceptics who questioned the credibility of the poll, insisting the outcome was a validation of his leadership and development record.
“I am an extraordinary leader; others are not. That is the difference that puts me there,” Owino said. “It is God’s plan. You know, one man with God is the majority.”
Opinion polls in Kenya have often attracted controversy, particularly after several surveys failed to accurately predict past election outcomes. However, Owino defended the methodology and timing of the latest study, arguing that growing public frustration with the current administration explains the results.
“First, the poll was commissioned by a company with decades of experience,” he said. “Also, Kenyans are largely disgruntled with the lack of proper service delivery, from schools, hospitals and infrastructure to the high cost of living. Why would anyone doubt it?”
While stopping short of declaring his political intentions ahead of the 2027 General Election, Owino suggested the poll had strengthened his resolve and hinted that a significant announcement was imminent.
“I will make a major declaration very soon,” he said, declining to provide further details.
According to the Infotrak survey, Owino emerged as the top perceived successor to Raila Odinga with 33 per cent support. He was followed by Acting ODM leader and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga at 10 per cent, ODM chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at 7 per cent, and Siaya Governor James Orengo at 4 per cent.
However, the poll also revealed uncertainty within the opposition, with 37 per cent of respondents saying they were undecided on who should succeed Raila Odinga, underscoring what analysts describe as a fluid and evolving political landscape.
The survey further tested Owino’s popularity beyond opposition politics. In a hypothetical Nairobi gubernatorial race, he was ranked ahead of incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja and other potential contenders, suggesting strong support within the capital.
In a separate question on presidential preference if elections were held today, President William Ruto led the field with 28 per cent support. Owino placed second with 7 per cent, ahead of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Justice Minister Martha Karua, who each polled at 5 per cent.
Political analysts say the findings point to shifting support patterns, particularly among younger voters and urban populations, demographics where Owino has maintained a strong presence through social media and grassroots mobilisation.
Owino first rose to national prominence as a student leader at the University of Nairobi, where he served as chairperson of the Students’ Organisation of Nairobi University (SONU). His tenure was marked by high-profile activism that catapulted him into mainstream politics.
He was elected Embakasi East MP in 2017 and successfully defended his seat in the 2022 General Election. Since entering Parliament, he has built a reputation as an outspoken legislator, frequently weighing in on education reforms, youth empowerment and the rising cost of living.
As debate intensifies over the future leadership of the opposition, Owino’s latest remarks and the poll results are likely to fuel speculation about his next political move, with attention now turning to the “major announcement” he says is just around the corner.
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Babu Owino Hints at ‘Major Announcement’ as New Poll Names him Raila’s Successor