Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has responded to claims that he has Indian roots. The rumors started after some of his political rivals questioned where he comes from, especially as he showed interest in becoming a key leader in the Luo community after Raila Odinga.
Speaking in an interview, Babu dismissed the claims and said they were not true. He explained that he is from Yimbo, a place called Got Matar in Siaya County. He said his father, Dominic Owino, is buried there and that his family home is also in the same area.
Babu wondered why people are now questioning his background yet they never did before he became more active in national politics. He said that being light-skinned does not mean someone is from another country. According to him, there are many Luo people with lighter skin.
He also blamed the rumors on politics. He claimed that some individuals started spreading the story because of political competition and personal differences. He mentioned Miguna Miguna as one of those who may have contributed to the claims.
Babu added that such discussions about his origin are not important and distract people from real issues affecting Kenyans. He said leaders should focus on solving problems instead of spreading rumors.
In another matter, Babu recently sent a message to Winnie Odinga after she was given a leadership role in the ODM party. He advised her to think bigger and align herself with a wider political vision instead of limiting her influence.
He also made it clear that he is only interested in becoming the party leader, not holding other positions.