They Never Wanted Me To Speak at Beryl Odinga's Burial, But People Spoke For Me - MP Babu Owino

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has revealed that the organisers of Beryl Odinga’s funeral in Bondo, Siaya County, did not want him to address the mourners.

In a statement on his social media on Saturday, December 6, Babu said the crowd at the funeral spoke on his behalf after cheering when his name was mentioned.

“They never wanted me to speak today at the burial, but the people spoke for me,” he wrote.

Although Babu did not give a speech, he was acknowledged by several leaders at the funeral. Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo and East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Ruth Odinga recognised him while reading the names of attending lawmakers.

Winnie Odinga also pointed him out to the mourners, saying, “Talking about unity means you allow people, even those you don’t like… That is my friend Babu Owino over there,” which drew cheers from attendees.

Beryl Odinga passed away on November 25, almost a month after the death of her elder brother, Raila Odinga. She was laid to rest on Saturday at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County.

Babu Owino’s remarks come amid ongoing frustrations he has expressed over his treatment within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party.

In October, he questioned why his loyalty and commitment seemed unappreciated, despite years of service.

He also disclosed that Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka offered him a senior leadership position, prompting him to reflect on his value in ODM.

“Kalonzo said, ‘Babu, if you come to the Wiper party, I’ll make you the Deputy Party Leader.’ Which means they wish me well, so why is it that in my own house, ODM, I’m not wished well?” Babu said.

Babu also hinted at concerns over his chances of securing an ODM ticket for the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in 2027, citing political developments within the party.

He referenced support for other candidates and suggested that his path to the ticket might be challenged.

However, ODM Party leader Oburu Oginga reassured Babu that he would not be denied the ticket if he wins the nominations.

Oburu encouraged him to remain in the party, stressing that his loyalty is valued and that the Nairobi governor race should remain competitive.

“I don’t see any issue with Babu Owino… If he wins the nominations, there’s absolutely no reason he wouldn’t get the ticket. He shouldn’t walk away,” said Oburu.