The remarks have added fresh momentum to the growing political debate over who will control the capital city after the next polls.
Speaking during an interview with Obinna TV, Atandi expressed confidence that Babu Owino has what it takes to become the next governor of Nairobi.
The Budget and Appropriations Committee chairperson said young leaders are gaining more influence in Kenyan politics and are likely to shape the outcome of future elections.
According to Atandi, Babu Owino has demonstrated strong leadership qualities during his time in Parliament and has built a connection with ordinary Nairobi residents.
According to Atandi, Babu Owino has demonstrated strong leadership qualities during his time in Parliament and has built a connection with ordinary Nairobi residents.
He noted that despite previous disagreements over the Linda Mwananchi movement, he still considers Babu a close ally and capable leader.
“The only thing I know about Nairobi is that my friend Babu Owino is going to win the election for governor; he is the next governor of Nairobi,” Atandi stated during the interview.
The remarks come at a time when political alignments in Nairobi are already beginning to emerge, even though the election is still more than a year away.
Babu Owino has increasingly positioned himself as one of the most outspoken youthful politicians in the country, especially on issues touching on governance, youth empowerment, and the cost of living.
Atandi dismissed claims that there is tension between him and the Embakasi East legislator. He explained that both of them serve in the Budget Committee and regularly interact on national matters.
Atandi dismissed claims that there is tension between him and the Embakasi East legislator. He explained that both of them serve in the Budget Committee and regularly interact on national matters.
The MP praised Babu’s contribution to parliamentary discussions, particularly on financial and development issues.
The Alego Usonga legislator also clarified recent remarks that some people interpreted as attacks against the Linda Mwananchi movement.
The Alego Usonga legislator also clarified recent remarks that some people interpreted as attacks against the Linda Mwananchi movement.
He insisted that his comments had been misunderstood and maintained that he has no personal political differences with Babu Owino.
Political analyst Herman Manyora has also weighed in on the Nairobi gubernatorial race. In a previous interview on his YouTube channel, Manyora predicted that Babu Owino would have an easy path to victory if he chooses to contest on a Wiper Democratic Movement ticket.
According to Manyora, Nairobi’s political demographics could work heavily in Babu’s favour. He argued that the city has a large Kamba voting bloc, which, combined with strong support from Luo voters and sections of the youth, could make Babu a difficult candidate to defeat.
“I think for Babu Owino, it is agreed generally by all that he is already the governor of Nairobi unless something drastic happens,” Manyora said during the interview.
The analyst added that if Babu joins Wiper, the race would become even easier because of the party’s support base in Nairobi and neighbouring Ukambani counties.
Babu Owino himself has not hidden his ambitions for higher office. The vocal MP has repeatedly hinted at seeking the Nairobi governor seat before eventually pursuing national leadership in future elections.
Political analyst Herman Manyora has also weighed in on the Nairobi gubernatorial race. In a previous interview on his YouTube channel, Manyora predicted that Babu Owino would have an easy path to victory if he chooses to contest on a Wiper Democratic Movement ticket.
According to Manyora, Nairobi’s political demographics could work heavily in Babu’s favour. He argued that the city has a large Kamba voting bloc, which, combined with strong support from Luo voters and sections of the youth, could make Babu a difficult candidate to defeat.
“I think for Babu Owino, it is agreed generally by all that he is already the governor of Nairobi unless something drastic happens,” Manyora said during the interview.
The analyst added that if Babu joins Wiper, the race would become even easier because of the party’s support base in Nairobi and neighbouring Ukambani counties.
Babu Owino himself has not hidden his ambitions for higher office. The vocal MP has repeatedly hinted at seeking the Nairobi governor seat before eventually pursuing national leadership in future elections.
He has maintained a strong presence on social media and public platforms, where he frequently criticises government policies and advocates for youth-centered leadership.
Over the years, Babu has managed to build a loyal political following, especially among young voters in Nairobi. His supporters view him as energetic, fearless, and capable of challenging the traditional political order.
However, the race for Nairobi governor is expected to attract several powerful candidates from different political camps.
Over the years, Babu has managed to build a loyal political following, especially among young voters in Nairobi. His supporters view him as energetic, fearless, and capable of challenging the traditional political order.
However, the race for Nairobi governor is expected to attract several powerful candidates from different political camps.
Current Governor Johnson Sakaja is also likely to defend his seat, setting the stage for what could become one of the most competitive contests in the country.
Political observers believe the Nairobi race will not only determine the leadership of the capital city but also influence national politics ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Political observers believe the Nairobi race will not only determine the leadership of the capital city but also influence national politics ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Nairobi remains one of the most politically significant counties because of its population, economic importance, and influence on national political trends.
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