Aasai

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has officially declared his intention to contest for Kenya’s presidency in the 2032 general elections, stating boldly that he is "overqualified" to vie for any other political office. The controversial and outspoken legislator made the announcement during an appearance on the Breakfast 47 show aired on Radio 47, where he outlined his vision, achievements, and political trajectory.

Babu, known for his energetic brand of politics, insisted that his experience in leadership and commitment to development have prepared him for the top seat. “I’m overqualified to be Kenya’s President in 2032. I have the passion, energy, and political acumen. My track record speaks for itself,” he declared. His pronouncement comes at a time when many opposition leaders are focusing on the 2027 elections, aiming to challenge President William Ruto’s re-election bid, but Babu has set his sights even further ahead.

Despite the presidential ambition, Babu made it clear that his immediate political goal is to become the next Governor of Nairobi County in 2027. He promised to make an official declaration in January 2025 and expressed confidence that city residents would support his candidature. “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 told listeners.

During the interview, Babu took the opportunity to highlight some of his major achievements as a legislator, which he believes give him an edge over other political figures. He was recently ranked as Kenya’s top-performing MP by research firm Politrack Africa, recognition he attributed to his focus on education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment. According to him, the NG-CDF allocation for Embakasi East is equal to other constituencies, but it is how he utilizes the funds that has made the difference. “I’ve gone even beyond our borders to look for development projects and scholarships for my people,” he said.

Babu emphasized his background as a former slum dweller from Nyalenda in Kisumu, noting that his personal journey of struggle shaped his leadership approach. “I came from the slums and I know what poverty feels like. That’s why I fight so hard for my people,” he noted. He cited key programs such as awarding 25,000 bursaries annually, building roads, and launching youth empowerment projects as proof of his commitment to transforming lives.

In a stinging criticism of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Babu accused the county leadership of failing city residents. He lamented the poor drainage, uncollected garbage, and general mismanagement of public services. “There’s a serious problem in Nairobi. Garbage is everywhere. Everything the governor touches turns into trash,” he said, adding that the capital needs bold, effective leadership—something he believes he can offer.

Babu’s twin declaration—his plan to run for Nairobi governor in 2027 and eventually for president in 2032—marks a clear shift in his political strategy, signaling long-term ambition backed by what he describes as measurable results. As the race for Nairobi’s top seat begins to shape up, and with national politics heating up ahead of 2027, Babu has positioned himself not only as a youthful leader but as a national figure with eyes on the future.