Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has disclosed that President William Ruto offered him the position of Cabinet Secretary for Education during the Gen Z protests in 2024. According to Owino, the offer was made as Ruto faced mounting pressure over anti-government demonstrations. The protests ultimately led to the dissolution of his cabinet in July 2024. Owino revealed this information during an interview on Thee Alfa House YouTube channel.
Owino stated that he turned down the offer due to his opposition to the broad-based government. He emphasized that his decision was guided by his principles and ideologies, which are in conflict with the concept of a broad-based government. Notably, even the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga had supported the arrangement, but Owino remained steadfast in his opposition. He highlighted that he was the only member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) who did not join the broad-based government.
In the interview, Owino addressed concerns about leaders linked to the Linda Mwananchi movement having their own parties. He argued that having a political party does not necessarily make someone more open to political persuasion. Instead, a leader's principles ultimately determine their loyalties. Owino defended his decision to establish his own party, The Mwananchi Party (TMP), saying it would encourage young people to seek elective office at various levels.
Owino cited past election coalitions, including the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC), Jubilee, the National Super Alliance (NASA), and Azimio la Umoja, to argue that parties can unite to contest the presidency. He noted that there are over 100 parties in Kenya, making it unsurprising that he has his own party. Owino also pointed to the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, highlighting the importance of party structures in giving politicians a platform to build support and defend themselves.
As the leader of The Mwananchi Party (TMP), Owino emphasized that ideology, not the prospect of securing government positions, would guide his political decisions. He expressed his commitment to encouraging young people to participate in politics and seek elective office. Owino's decision to establish his own party has sparked interest in the country's political landscape, with many watching to see how his party will influence future elections.
The Gen Z protests, which took place in 2024, were a significant challenge to President Ruto's administration. The protests led to the dissolution of the cabinet and raised questions about the government's ability to address the concerns of young people. Owino's revelation about the cabinet job offer provides insight into the internal dynamics of the government during that period.
Owino's comments have sparked debate about the role of political parties and ideologies in Kenya's politics. As the country prepares for future elections, the conversation around political alliances, party structures, and leadership ideologies is likely to continue. With his own party, The Mwananchi Party (TMP), Owino is poised to play a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape.
Key points
- Babu Owino turned down a Cabinet Secretary post offered by President William Ruto during the 2024 Gen Z protests due to his opposition to the broad-based government.
