By Samuel Ouma
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has distanced himself from allegations that he has been instructing blogger Maverick Aoko to insult Ida Odinga, the wife of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Babu said that he has never influenced her content or any attacks on the Odinga family.
In a social media post, Babu referred to Aoko as a friend and a passionate supporter, but he made it clear that she is her own person who makes her own choices and posts without his guidance.
“Maverick is an independent thinker. I don’t know where she gets her information from, and I’ve never instructed her to go after the Odinga family,” Babu stated.
He went on to explain that his close ties with the Odinga family prevent him from condoning or engaging in any insults aimed at them.
Babu mentioned that he shares a friendship with Winnie Odinga, Raila Odinga Jr., and Rosemary Odinga, and he holds Ida Odinga in high regard.
“How could I ever insult their only mother?” he questioned, adding that Ida has always treated him like one of her own.
Babu shared that Mama Ida often welcomes him into her home and enjoys meals with him during his visits, describing her as warm and caring.
“She’s been so good to me, and I truly care for her. I could never disrespect such a wonderful mother,” he expressed.
These comments from the legislator come after a wave of public criticism following Aoko’s remarks, which many interpreted as disrespectful towards Ida Odinga.
Some social media users had connected those comments to Babu, suggesting he might have influenced the blogger’s words.
However, Babu reiterated that while he values the support of friends and allies, he does not control or dictate their opinions, especially on delicate personal and political issues. The Odinga family has yet to respond officially to the situation.
