Millie Odhiambo: This is Why Babu and Sifuna are Against Broad-based Government, l Understand Them

Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has defended Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, saying their strong political stand is shaped by the nature of Nairobi politics. 

She explained that the two leaders are not rebelling against ODM but are simply reacting to the demands of their urban voters.

Speaking on Monday, November 17, Odhiambo said Nairobi politics is very different from rural politics. 

According to her, the city environment is highly unstable and naturally leans toward opposition politics. 

She noted that leaders from Nairobi must balance party loyalty with the expectations of their supporters, who often want leaders who speak boldly and challenge the government.

Odhiambo said that while she can easily talk to her Suba North residents about unity, Babu Owino and Sifuna face different pressures. In her view, Nairobi voters expect strong, outspoken leaders who protect their interests. 

She added that this reality forces the two politicians to take firm stands, even when others feel they should follow the ODM leadership more closely.

Babu Owino has faced increased speculation about his future in ODM due to his confrontational style and high energy in politics. 

During the ODM@20 celebrations, he openly said he was capable of leading the party, a statement that led to debate within ODM. 

He has also continued attacking the Kenya Kwanza government, insisting that he will defend the interests of ordinary Kenyans. He even warned that he would call for protests if government policies continued to hurt citizens.

Senator Sifuna has also been questioned for refusing to soften his stand toward the government. 

Recently, he warned ODM members not to use the term “broad-based” when referring to the party’s engagement with the government. 

He and Babu Owino also skipped a joint ODM–UDA meeting chaired by the President, making clear their choice to stay in the opposition lane.

Odhiambo further noted that Kenyan politics still heavily depends on ethnic lines. She said that even in Nairobi, where many expect a more issue-based approach, tribal influence remains strong and shapes political positions.

 She said Babu Owino and Sifuna are simply responding to the unique demands of Nairobi politics, where leaders must remain bold, vocal, and ready to challenge authority.