Babu Owino responds to Senator Cheruiyot’s claims that he can’t be Nairobi governor
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has hit back at Kericho County Senator Aaron Cheruiyot after he suggested that he was not fit to be elected as Nairobi governor because he is ‘not a city person’.
Speaking in a video posted on social media on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Babu dismissed the claims, saying Nairobi’s leadership should not be determined by birthplace but by the ability to address the city’s pressing issues.
Nairobi needs solutions
You might also like
“You know, my brother, when you are hungry, your stomach will allow you. There is Nairobi by birth and Nairobi by bus,” Babu said, implying that both natives and migrants have a stake in the city’s development.
He went on to distinguish between those who were born in Nairobi and those who moved there in search of opportunity, arguing that the latter often understand and address the struggles of ordinary residents better.
“Those who came by bus fix challenges like school fees for our children by giving them bursaries, fix poor medication, drainage problems, unemployment, and corruption. They work to provide better services,” he said.
Babu accused leaders who were born and raised in Nairobi of failing to safeguard the city’s reputation, claiming they had left it in a state of decay.
“Those who came by birth have left Nairobi, a place that can’t be admired. They have left it as a cemetery. A cemetery of thuggery, the worst environment for doing business. Now you can judge for yourself,” he added.
The outspoken MP’s remarks come in the wake of growing political speculation about his ambitions for Nairobi’s top seat. Although he has not formally declared his candidacy, Babu’s comments appear to signal that he would be willing to challenge stereotypes about who can lead the capital.
Senator Cheruiyot’s remarks had sparked debate online, with some arguing that being ‘from Nairobi’ is not a prerequisite for effective leadership, while others maintained that a deep, personal connection to the city is essential.
Babu, however, maintained that his track record of fighting for education bursaries, healthcare improvements, and better infrastructure speaks for itself, and that Nairobi’s next governor should be judged by action, not origin.
