Embakasi East MP Babu Owino called on ODM supporters in Mombasa to stay committed to the party’s core principles, warning that the movement is ready to take action if economic hardships escalate.
Speaking during the 20th anniversary celebrations of the Orange Democratic Movement at Mama Ngina Waterfront on Saturday, the outspoken legislator said the party’s loyalty to Raila Odinga’s vision should shape its future.
Babu told the crowd that the party remains prepared to stand up for ordinary Kenyans, even in Raila’s absence. His remarks resonated with supporters who had gathered in large numbers to mark the milestone.
"And I want to assure Raila Odinga wherever he is at this moment; Baba siku ya leo, gharama ya maisha ikienda juu tutaenda maandamano, wapende wasipende (Baba if today the cost of living goes up, we shall demonstrate whether they like it or not)."
The MP’s warning harked back to March 2023, when Raila led widespread protests over rising prices and perceived electoral injustice following the 2022 elections. At that time, Raila urged his followers to remain persistent in pushing for accountability.
"Every Monday there will be a strike, there will be a demonstration," Odinga told crowds in Nairobi.
"The war has begun; it will not end until Kenyans get their rights."
Those protests led to clashes between police and demonstrators in several towns, marking one of the first major unrests under President William Ruto’s tenure. Attempts by the government to engage Raila initially failed, as the ODM leader declined overtures aimed at calming the country.
The stalemate lasted until July 2024, when tensions flared again following the passage of a controversial Finance Bill and Gen Z–led demonstrations that turned violent on July 25, resulting in multiple fatalities.
Raila eventually agreed to work with the President, paving the way for a broad-based government that brought in senior ODM figures, including Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi.
Raila’s intervention was credited with easing national tension and stabilising the political environment. He was later awarded the Chief of the Golden Heart (CGH) by President Ruto in recognition of his role, with the President commending him for selflessness and statesmanship.
Even in Raila’s absence at the celebrations, Babu said the party’s spirit of resistance remains strong. Invited by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, Babu received a loud ovation as he encouraged members to remain vigilant and united.
"To Baba the great, we want to tell our people, to rise, rise with courage, rise with conviction, rise with strength to fight because we know that we are stronger than our oppressors," he said, emphasising the need for continued dedication to the party’s values.
