Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has responded to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s accusations of meddling in Uganda’s politics. Shortly after Museveni’s speech, Owino took to X to dismiss the remarks, emphasizing his commitment to democracy and leadership.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Owino highlighted his humble upbringing and his understanding of the challenges faced by the poor. He compared the economic situations of Kenya and Uganda, stressing the need for visionary leaders who truly understand the struggles of the youth in both countries.
“I thank President Museveni for supporting Baba’s bid for the AUC Chairmanship. However, as a young leader in Kenya who grew up in poverty, I understand what it means to lack,” Owino stated. “If you tell me you’ve slept hungry, I know what that feels like because I’ve experienced it. If you tell me you can’t afford school fees, I empathize because I’ve been there. The challenges we face in Kenya and across Africa require leaders who provide real solutions.”
Criticizing Museveni’s prolonged autocratic rule of over 38 years, Owino called for the rights of Ugandans to be respected through democratic processes. He argued that Africans deserve “alternative visions of leadership” to break free from oppression and poverty.
“As Babu Owino, I stand for a democratic society where every child in Kenya receives proper healthcare, education, and job opportunities. The same should apply to children in Uganda,” Owino added. “We must offer alternative leadership that liberates Africans from oppression and poverty.”
Museveni, while endorsing Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson at State House in Nairobi, accused Owino of aligning with Uganda’s opposition, saying, “I am a consumer of intelligence services, and I see reports. There is a character called Babu. I always see Babu dealing with anti-NRM groups. I have never accused him before, but now I am accusing him.”
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also condemned Museveni’s comments, criticizing the Ugandan President’s approach to Owino. “Whatever issues Museveni has with Babu Owino, I strongly object to his attack on a young Kenyan leader on our own soil,” said Sifuna. He further suggested that Museveni should have used diplomatic channels rather than publicly criticizing Owino.
Sifuna stated, “Kenya is a country ruled by law, and if there are any issues with Babu, diplomatic channels should be used to communicate with Kenyan authorities. Using a presidential platform to make such accusations against a Kenyan is unacceptable!”
