Babu Owino: 'I would never try to outshine Raila Odinga's legacy'

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has spoken out emotionally following widespread claims that he orchestrated the warm and passionate reception he received when he arrived at the home of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amollo Odinga.

The youthful legislator dismissed the rumours, saying he would never attempt to outshine or take advantage of the legacy of his long-time political mentor and father figure.

Speaking at the Odinga residence, Babu appeared visibly moved as he addressed the speculation. “I had heard numerous allegations about what happened at Mama Ida’s home, but I would be the last person to try and outshine his legacy,” he said. “We were so close. He would even consult at 4 a.m. to ask how to fix the country.”

The MP described Raila as a man of immense wisdom and humility, recalling how the ODM leader guided and inspired him throughout his political journey. “Raila Odinga was not just a politician; he was a teacher. He was Kenya’s conscience, a man who believed in justice, equality, and the power of the people,” he added.

The atmosphere outside the Odinga home was emotional, with supporters chanting “Baba! Baba!” and holding placards celebrating his life. Babu, however, maintained that the display was a spontaneous outpouring of love from Kenyans who revered Raila’s lifelong struggle for democracy.

Meanwhile, the viewing of Raila Odinga’s body has been moved from Parliament Buildings to Kasarani Stadium to accommodate the huge number of mourners expected to pay their last respects.

Across the country, tributes continue to pour in from all walks of life. Comedian Eric Omondi, Presidential aspirant Jimmy Wanjigi, Lupita Nyong’o, and Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o are among those who have shared heartfelt messages honouring Raila’s impact.

Kenya Airways aircraft, flight code RAO001, ferrying the body of Raila Odinga from India, descended gracefully from the morning sky and touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at exactly 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 16.

The special code, RAO 001, the initials of Raila Amollo Odinga, was a fitting tribute to a man whose name had become synonymous with Kenya’s political struggle and resilience.

As the plane taxied to a halt, two fire engines arched twin jets of water above it in a majestic ceremonial salute, a time-honoured aviation gesture reserved for moments of great honour and farewell. 

From the gates to the runways, thousands had gathered since dawn, many draped in orange, waving flags and portraits of the man they fondly called Baba. Chants of “Baba! Baba!” echoed across the tarmac, merging with the distant hum of jet engines.

Tears streamed freely as the casket, draped in the Kenyan flag, was slowly offloaded, marking the return of a leader who had spent decades fighting for democracy and justice.

So massive was the outpouring of emotion that security barriers briefly gave way, as mourners surged forward for one last glimpse.

In an unprecedented move, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) temporarily closed JKIA’s airspace from 10:26 a.m. to 12:26 p.m., citing the need for enhanced security rescreening. “The safety and security of our passengers and all airport users is our highest priority,” KAA acting Managing Director Mohamud Gedi said in a statement, urging patience from affected travellers.