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During a speech at State House on Tuesday, where former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s African Union candidacy was unveiled, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni criticized some individuals in Raila’s camp, including Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, accusing them of supporting his political adversaries in Uganda.
ALSO READ: Ugandan President Slams Babu Owino During Raila Odinga’s AU Launch
In his response, Owino emphasized the need for leaders to offer alternative visions that combat oppression and poverty in Africa.
“Leaders must address the challenges facing Kenya and Africa by providing solutions,” Owino stated in a Facebook post. “I advocate for a democratic society where every child in Kenya and Uganda receives proper healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.”
Museveni had claimed that Owino frequently appears in his intelligence reports due to his support for anti-National Resistance Movement (NRM) groups. The NRM is Uganda’s ruling party led by Museveni.
Owino countered by highlighting his personal experience with poverty and his commitment to addressing local needs and combating economic hardship.
“As someone who has experienced poverty firsthand, I understand the struggles of those who go hungry or lack school fees,” Owino said.
Owino has been a prominent supporter of Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine.
Museveni had previously refrained from accusing Owino of supporting his opponents until now, stating, “Some in Raila’s group think I am unaware of their actions. I receive intelligence reports regularly and see Babu involved with anti-NRM factions.”
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna defended Owino, criticizing Museveni for making accusations on Kenyan soil rather than using diplomatic channels.
ALSO READ: Sifuna Slams Museveni Over Public Attack on Babu Owino
“Regardless of Museveni’s issues with Babu Owino, I object to his public attack on a young Kenyan leader in our country,” Sifuna stated on X. “Kenya operates under the rule of law, and any concerns should be addressed through proper diplomatic channels.”
Despite the criticism, Babu Owino thanked President Museveni for his support of Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Museveni affirmed his endorsement of Odinga, citing his deep understanding of the continent’s challenges.
