Embakasi East Member of Parliament Paul Ongili, popularly known as Babu Owino, has addressed claims that he has a secret wife and an abandoned child living in his constituency.
Addressing the allegations publicly during a podcast interview, the lawmaker described the accusations as baseless and absurd. The claims were initially circulated online by former Nairobi County Chief Officer Geoffrey Mosiria.
Owino set the record straight regarding his marital status, clarifying that he is legally married to Fridah Muthoni Ongili. He challenged his accusers to bring the alleged second family into the public eye rather than spreading rumours on social media.
Clarifying Marital Status
"I am married to Freda Muthoni," Owino said. "That is my wife. Any other wife that I am being given by Mosiria, I want that wife atolewe in public anywhere."
The MP explained that the accusations cut deep because of his personal upbringing. He shared that he lost his father at a young age and was raised entirely by a single mother in difficult circumstances.
"Babu was raised by a single mom after my dad passed when I was in class 3," he stated. "I know what single women go through in this country."
Financial Logic and Child Welfare
Owino questioned the financial logic of the allegations. He noted that as an MP, he routinely provides bursaries and support to thousands of children in Embakasi East. He argued that neglecting his own blood would make no sense.
"How much can a child eat in a day? It's even less than 200 shillings," Owino remarked. "Why would I feed people's children before feeding my own child?"
The lawmaker stressed that a child requires minimal daily upkeep of under 200 Kenya Shillings. He maintained that he could easily support any child of his.
Open Challenge to Take Matter to Court
Owino urged anyone claiming to be his wife or holding his child to take official legal steps. He noted that Kenya's court system provides clear mechanisms for resolving parental care obligations.
"That lady would have gone to court so that we solve that case in court so that Babu can take care of his children," he insisted. "I want all my kids. A child is a blessing from God. You can't punish a child."
Leadership Duties and Political Ambitions
Linking family duty directly to public governance, Owino stated that failing to care for a child would demonstrate incompetence for leadership.
He highlighted his current service and future political aspirations in Kenya.
"Why would I punish such a child and I want to be a leader, a member of parliament in Embakasi," Owino reflected. "I want to be a governor in Nairobi and someday I want to be a president of this country."
Owino concluded by reaffirming his commitment to his constituents and his family, urging his political rivals to focus on constructive leadership debates rather than personal attacks.
