After a domineering last decade, Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko's political career seems to have hit a dead end, at least going by recent happenings which has seen him barred from office. And in line to succeed him seems to be Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
Now in his first term in Parliament, Babu Owino is already a well-established politician, with a huge social media following. At a relatively young age, his political star is already shinning bright. The next 10 years could be his moment to rule Nairobi politics.
In politics, the youthful MP is very vocal. His choice of language has earned him followers and critics alike. Nonetheless, it is that very language that has defined his political life since he transitioned from student politics and into the national stage.
In 2019, he was crowned " Member of Parliament of the Year". The award could be a confirmation to his fast-rising political stature. It could also confirm that the University of Nairobi-trained Actuarist is development-oriented.
With the young population as the base of his young political career, Owino has emerged as the "voice of the youth" in Parliament, especially university students. Whether he will get political capital out of it is another story.
Using ODM leader Raila Odinga as his political mentor and godfather, the outspoken Owino could he be the man to inherit the former Prime Minister's Nairobi political base. His deep pockets could further propel him to the pinnacle of Nairobi's tough politics.
Over the years, Nairobi has built and destroyed political careers. But for Owino, his strategy will break or make him. However, he remains the man to closely watch for the next 10 years.