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Marcelo Bahati reveals he spent Ksh30k tattooing Babu Owino’s face on his back
13th February, 2026 02:27 PM
Marcelo Bahati, a fervent Gen Z supporter of Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Paul Ongili, alias Babu Owino, has not only revealed how much he spent on the iconic tattoo of the lawmaker’s face on his back but also opened up about the inspiration behind it.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with K24 Digital on Friday, February 13, 2026, Bahati explained that out of the Ksh30,000, Ksh25,000 covered the design, detailing, and time spent on the large portrait inked across his back, while the remaining Ksh5,000 was used to buy medicine for post-tattoo care.
On the issue of medication, the youngster disclosed that he was advised to take medicine for a month to prevent infection during the healing process.
“I spend 25 thousand plus on medical, summing up to Ksh30k,” Bahati explained.
“I was told to take medicine for one month to prevent any infection.”
According to him, the artwork was done by a professional tattoo artist and took several hours to complete.
Reasons behind
The 25-year-old thrift seller went on and said that the tattoo, which he termed a symbol of respect and appreciation, was a personal decision inspired by admiration for the outspoken lawmaker.
In addition to his admiration for him, Bahati added that the lawmaker’s dedication to fighting for the younger generation and a better country also contributed to his decision.
“Babu is my mentor. I got the tattoo on February 9, 2026, and I tattooed Babu’s face because of the good work he is doing and the love that I have for him,” he revealed.
“Babu is the father of many; he stands firm to fight for Kenyans.”
Apart from the lawmaker’s exemplary leadership, Bahati disclosed that he decided to leave Babu’s mark on his back as a way of mobilising fellow Gen Zs to fight for a better country, just like the way the MP does.
“I also tattooed to get the attention of other Gen Zs to fight for a better Kenya,” Bahati added.
Bahati’s bold move reflects a growing trend among Gen Z, who are increasingly finding bold ways to express support for their favourite politicians as the country heads into the political season.
Iconic tattoo
The tattoo on Bahati’s back features the MP’s face, accompanied by Babu’s slogan and other words declaring that the country cannot survive without him.
“Kenya bila Babu ni tabu, Babu kwa sababu, Babu Babu Owino,” the caption reads.
Babu on tribute Tattoo
This revelation follows Babu Owino’s promise of rewarding him, noting that loyalty must be rewarded in equal measure in instalments.
“I am looking for this loyal Kenyan. Loyalty must be rewarded in instalments,” Babu wrote in a statement on his official Facebook account on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.
