The Reason Obinna Thinks Babu Owino is the New Gen Z King

Kenyan media personality and comedian Oga Obinna recently sparked renewed political conversation after making a bold claim about the influence of Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino among the country’s youth.

While the full video is circulating online, Obinna’s comment was clear:

“About 90 % of youths are listening to Babu Owino.”

This assertion, framed as both fact and political observation, touched off debate among social media users, commentators, and citizens invested in the evolving dynamics of Kenyan politics.

Why Obinna’s Comment Matters

Obinna’s claim stands out for two main reasons:

Youth Influence in Kenyan Politics:

Kenya has one of the largest youth populations in Africa, with a majority under the age of 35 — a demographic that is increasingly active on digital media, vocal in social discourse, and influential in shaping political trends.

When a public figure like Obinna suggests that “90 % of youths” are tuned into a particular politician’s voice, it signals a perception that generational change is underway.

Babu Owino as a Gen Z Political Figure:

Babu Owino himself is often described as a politician who embodies “youth energy,” passion, and outspoken style.

Also Read: MP Babu Owino Launches Search for Man Behind Massive Back

Despite controversies and legal issues in his past, including an attempted murder case from 2020, he continues to maintain political relevance — both in formal political spaces and on social platforms.

Obinna’s comment reflects broader narratives about Babu’s appeal to younger voters and supporters.

It suggests that Babu’s messaging — whether through speeches, social posts, or appearances — resonates more strongly with the new generation of Kenyan voters than more traditional politicians.

Context: Babu Owino’s Rising Profile

In recent months, Babu Owino has become a central figure in discussions around the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Kenyan politics.

After the passing of former ODM leader Raila Odinga, debates about the party’s direction have intensified, with Obinna himself recently saying that Babu Owino is the only leader in ODM who carries the same “favour and anointing” that Raila had, and that the party should consider giving him a key leadership role.

These comments, paired with Obinna’s “90 %” claim about youth attention, reinforce a narrative that Babu is not just a vocal MP but also a symbol of generational change — a figure who, according to Obinna, has the ears and imaginations of Kenya’s young population.

Public Reaction and Debate

Reactions to Obinna’s assertion have been mixed:

Supporters say that the youth are indeed drawn to Babu because of his energy, outspokenness, and active stance on social issues — including rising living costs.

Babu has at times mobilised or threatened youth activism when public frustrations rise.

Critics and sceptics challenge the accuracy of the “90 %” figure, pointing out that social media metrics often exaggerate engagement and that many young people diversify their political attention across multiple leaders and platforms.

Some commentators have also expressed concern that equating popularity with genuine political direction might oversimplify the real challenges facing Kenya’s youth.

What This Suggests for Kenyan Politics

Obinna’s comment goes beyond a casual observation — it reflects a growing belief among some commentators that Kenya’s political landscape is shifting.

Younger voters, increasingly active online and offline, are less likely to align with traditional patronage politics and more drawn to leaders who speak their language, address their frustrations, or reflect their aspirations.

Whether or not the “90 %” figure is accurate, Obinna’s message resonates because it captures a sentiment: the future of Kenyan politics is unpredictable, and youth influence is undeniable