Babu Owino’s advice to Oburu Odinga has sparked renewed debate about political influence and coalition-building in Kenya. According to Babu Owino, Raila Odinga never went out looking for political parties to form coalitions with; instead, political parties came to him. This statement underscores Raila Odinga’s long-standing political stature and his ability to attract allies through influence rather than persuasion.
For decades, Raila Odinga has positioned himself as a central figure in Kenya’s opposition politics. His role in the struggle for democracy, constitutional reforms, and social justice earned him national recognition and loyalty across different regions. As a result, coalitions such as NARC, ODM alliances, CORD, and NASA were not merely political arrangements but movements built around his political capital and public trust. Babu Owino’s remarks emphasize the idea that strong leadership naturally draws support rather than chasing it.
Babu Owino’s message to Oburu Odinga can also be interpreted as a caution against desperate or hurried coalition politics. He appears to argue that political relevance should be rooted in ideology, public support, and consistent leadership, not in last-minute negotiations or political bargaining. A leader with genuine grassroots backing does not need to seek alliances aggressively; alliances emerge organically when there is confidence in that leader’s vision.
Moreover, the statement highlights the broader question of succession and political authority in the post-Raila era. It challenges current leaders to reflect on whether they possess the credibility, mass appeal, and ideological clarity necessary to command similar loyalty. Babu Owino seems to suggest that without deep public trust, coalition-building becomes transactional rather than transformative.
Babu Owino’s advice goes beyond Oburu Odinga as an individual. It serves as a broader lesson in Kenyan politics: true political power is earned through consistency, struggle, and connection with the people. When a leader embodies these qualities, political parties and coalitions do not need to be pursued—they come willingly.
