Paul Ongili Owino, popularly known as Babu Owino, is a prominent Kenyan politician renowned for his dynamic presence in the political landscape. From his early days in student leadership to his current role as the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East, Babu’s journey is marked by resilience, academic excellence, and a flair for controversy.
Age
Born on October 10, 1989, in Kondele, Kisumu County, Babu Owino is currently 35 years old as of April 2025. His early life in the informal settlements of Kisumu shaped his perspective and fueled his ambition to effect change through leadership.
Wife
Babu Owino is married to Frida Muthoni, whom he met during his time at the University of Nairobi. Frida is often described as intelligent and supportive, playing a significant role in Babu’s personal and professional life.
Children
The couple has two daughters together. Additionally, Babu has a son from a previous relationship, bringing the total number of his biological children to three.
Education
Babu Owino’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication to education:
- Primary Education: Kisumu Township Primary School (1995–2002).
- Secondary Education: Kisumu Boys’ High School (2003–2006), where he scored an A- in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.
- Tertiary Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Actuarial Science, University of Nairobi (Graduated with First Class Honors in 2012).
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB), University of Nairobi (Enrolled in 2013, completed in 2017).
- Master’s Degree in Actuarial Science, University of Nairobi.
- Pursuing a second Master’s degree.
- Holds six diplomas in Pure Mathematics, Mechanics, Law, Accounting, Chemistry, and Statistics.
His commitment to education is further exemplified by his efforts to provide online tutorials to students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career
Babu’s political career commenced during his university years:
- 2011: Elected Chairman of the Students Organisation of Nairobi University (SONU), a position he held for multiple terms, earning a reputation as a formidable student leader.
- 2013: Contested for the ODM Party nomination for Westlands Constituency but was unsuccessful.
- 2017: Elected as the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East Constituency on an ODM ticket.
- 2022: Re-elected to serve a second term in the National Assembly.
Throughout his tenure, Babu has been an outspoken advocate for youth empowerment and education reforms.
Babu Owino Controversies
Babu Owino, the Embakasi East Member of Parliament, has been a central figure in several high-profile controversies throughout his political career. His confrontational style and outspoken nature have often placed him at the center of legal and political disputes.
1. Attempted Murder Case: The DJ Evolve Shooting
In January 2020, Babu Owino was arrested and charged with attempted murder after a shooting incident at B-Club, a popular Nairobi nightclub. Surveillance footage captured the MP shooting DJ Felix Orinda, known as DJ Evolve, in the neck at close range.
The incident sparked public outrage, especially after the video showed Owino and others dragging the injured DJ out of the club. Owino claimed self-defense, alleging provocation. He was detained for seven days before being released on bail.
In December 2021, reports indicated that Owino entered a civil agreement with the victim, which included covering medical expenses, purchasing a house, and providing ongoing financial support.
2. Hate Speech and Insults Against President Uhuru Kenyatta
In September 2017, Owino faced charges of subversion and uttering abusive words against then-President Uhuru Kenyatta.
During a rally in Kawangware, he allegedly made remarks calculated to excite disaffection against the presidency. The prosecution argued that his statements were intended to incite violence and disobedience of lawful authority.
3. Clashes with Moses Kuria
Babu Owino has had a contentious relationship with then, Gatundu South MP, Moses Kuria. In 2017, after Kuria made remarks suggesting that NASA leader Raila Odinga should be placed under house arrest, Owino responded with a video warning Kuria against making such statements.
Kuria filed a hate speech case against Owino, but the court acquitted him, ruling that while his language was disrespectful, it did not amount to incitement.
4. Allegations of Assault
Owino has been implicated in several assault cases. In January 2018, he was arrested for allegedly assaulting a parking attendant in Westlands, Nairobi, after a dispute over parking fees.
Despite video evidence showing the attendant being assaulted, Owino denied the allegations. In November 2018, he was involved in a physical altercation with fellow legislator Charles Njagua, known as Jaguar, within the parliament buildings over differing political positions.
5. Threats Against Journalists
In September 2021, Owino was accused of making threatening phone calls and sending intimidating messages to journalists.
Reports indicated that he targeted media personnel over unfavorable coverage of his political activities. These actions drew criticism from media watchdogs and press freedom advocates.
6. 2024 DCI Summons Over Incitement Claims
In July 2024, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) summoned Owino over allegations of incitement and money laundering. However, the summons was later withdrawn.
Owino claimed that the withdrawal was due to the anticipated large turnout of his supporters accompanying him to the DCI offices, suggesting that the move was politically motivated.
Despite these controversies, Babu Owino remains a significant figure in Kenyan politics, known for his unwavering support for his party and his vocal advocacy on various national issues.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Babu Owino’s estimated net worth is approximately $2.2 million. This wealth is attributed to his salary as a Member of Parliament and various business ventures.
Babu Owino’s journey from humble beginnings to a notable political figure underscores his resilience and commitment to public service. Despite controversies, his influence in Kenyan politics remains significant, especially among the youth.
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