Oburu Assures Babu ODM Nairobi Ticket

 

A significant boost for Nairobi’s political landscape emerged this afternoon, Thursday, October 30, 2025, as Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) acting party leader Oburu Odinga publicly assured Embakasi East MP Paul Babu Owino that the party will grant him the gubernatorial ticket for Nairobi City County if he emerges victorious in the 2027 nominations. The statement, delivered at 1:47 PM East Africa Time during a party meeting in Siaya, dismisses circulating fears of ticket denial and urges Babu to remain patient and committed to ODM’s principles. Oburu emphasized a transparent nomination process, stating that the winner will automatically receive the ticket. "Whoever wins fairly in our primaries will carry the ODM flag," Oburu said, addressing party supporters and Babu directly. The endorsement has ignited excitement and speculation across Kenya, amid a Sh10 trillion national debt and 5.5% inflation.

Babu, a vocal and charismatic lawmaker known for his free KCSE math classes and youth mobilization, has long eyed the Nairobi governorship, positioning himself as a reformist leader for the capital’s 5.3 million residents. Oburu’s assurance comes amid internal party dynamics, with ODM navigating alliances and succession planning ahead of the 2027 General Election. The acting leader, brother to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, sought to quell rumors of favoritism, insisting that ODM’s democratic credentials remain intact. In Kisumu, a teacher preparing lessons for her students caught the update on her radio and said, "This could change Nairobi if Babu wins fairly." 

Public response has been a mix of optimism and skepticism. In Embakasi East, a youth organizing a community cleanup paused to listen and said, "Babu has our support; let the nominations be open." The assurance follows Babu’s recent legal tussle with Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai, who challenged his educational programs, highlighting the MP’s high-profile status. Oburu’s remarks aim to unify the party, with Nairobi’s gubernatorial race seen as a bellwether for ODM’s national strength. A trader in Gikomba Market, sorting clothes, added, "We need a leader who understands the streets." The endorsement tests party democracy. 

The afternoon’s announcement drew diverse reactions. In Thika, a mother preparing lunch for her children said, "Babu is young and bold; he could fix traffic." In Baringo, a herder tending cattle noted, "Promises are easy; delivery is hard." ODM’s nomination rules, updated in 2024, mandate universal suffrage primaries, with electronic voting to ensure transparency. Babu, who joined ODM in 2017, has built a strong grassroots base, but faces potential rivals like Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi. A driver in Garissa, fueling his matatu, remarked, "This ticket is Babu’s if he plays smart." The statement reflects strategic positioning. 

As the day progressed, the story reached remote areas. In Marsabit, a community elder listening to a radio update said, "Nairobi’s choice affects us all." In Mombasa’s markets, a fisherman packing nets asked, "Will ODM keep its word?" The party plans county-level consultations to prepare for 2027, with Oburu urging members to focus on service delivery. Babu’s campaign, though unofficial, includes youth empowerment and infrastructure pledges, resonating with urban voters. A shopkeeper in Homa Bay, preparing for the Devolution Conference, noted, "This could strengthen ODM if fair." The assurance addresses internal cohesion. 

The afternoon brought a reflective mood to offices and homes. In Eldoret, a public servant preparing a report said, "Nairobi needs fresh leadership; Babu fits." In Kisumu, a father checking on his family added, "My nephew in Embakasi supports him; let’s see." The 2022 election saw ODM retain Nairobi with Johnson Sakaja’s defection to UDA, making 2027 a redemption target. Oburu’s role as acting leader, following Raila’s African Union Commission bid, adds weight to his words. A community organizer in Turkana, planning a radio talk, remarked, "Transparency will win votes." The pledge challenges party loyalty. 

Experts see a calculated move. In Nairobi, a political analyst discussing over tea said, "This locks Babu in but pressures ODM to deliver fair primaries." The gubernatorial race, with Nairobi’s Ksh45 billion budget, attracts heavyweights, but Babu’s popularity gives him an edge. A vendor in Timau, closing his stall, said, "Let the people decide, not leaders." ODM plans a membership drive to bolster numbers, with Babu expected to lead youth recruitment. A father in Nyahururu, walking home with his family, added, "This could inspire young leaders." The endorsement marks a political milestone. 

The day saw continued engagement across the country. In Nakuru, a group at a market debated the news. "Will nominations be rigged?" one trader asked, sorting vegetables. In Nairobi’s cyber cafes, a student scrolling through updates noted, "Social media is backing Babu." The party will launch a civic education program, with Oburu touring counties. A youth leader in Kitale, organizing an event, reflected, "This could unite ODM if honored." As 2027 nears, the ticket promise will shape Nairobi’s future.