Embakasi East Member of Parliament Paul Ongili, popularly known as Babu Owino, celebrated his 36th birthday on October 10, 2025, amid growing political excitement after a new opinion poll placed him as the frontrunner in the 2027 Nairobi gubernatorial race.
According to a September 2025 survey by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), Babu Owino currently commands 28.1% voter support, positioning him ahead of incumbent Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, who trails with 16.4% support.
The poll attributes Owino’s rising popularity to his strong appeal among Gen-Z voters and Eastlands residents, groups that view him as a bold and relatable leader who speaks directly to their frustrations. His outspoken advocacy for youth empowerment, education reform, and accountability in governance have earned him widespread praise, particularly on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), where his birthday was celebrated with thousands of messages under trending hashtags.
Supporters see Babu Owino as the change agent Nairobi needs, arguing that his energetic approach could help resolve persistent county challenges like unpaid worker arrears, poor service delivery, and youth unemployment. Many of his followers believe his academic background and activism make him uniquely qualified to transform Nairobi’s governance landscape.
However, critics remain cautious, pointing to his combative political style and frequent confrontations with opponents as potential obstacles to effective leadership. Some analysts suggest that while his popularity is soaring, his temperament may alienate moderate voters who prefer a more diplomatic approach.
Still, the Embakasi East legislator’s growing influence is undeniable. His 36th birthday celebration has become more than just a personal milestone—it symbolizes a potential political transition in Nairobi. As the 2027 elections draw nearer, all eyes will be on whether Babu Owino can maintain his momentum and translate his online popularity into votes at the ballot box.
If current trends are anything to go by, Nairobi’s next gubernatorial contest could very well be a showdown between the city’s youthful firebrand and its sitting governor.
