Speaking during a public address, Babu Owino remarked, “Other than being the President of Kenya, William Ruto is the Governor of Nairobi,” a statement widely interpreted as a sharp critique of Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s leadership and independence.
The outspoken MP suggested that major decisions affecting the capital city are increasingly being directed from State House rather than from City Hall.
According to Babu, frequent presidential involvement in Nairobi projects, infrastructure launches, and policy pronouncements has created the impression that the county government has been sidelined.
His comments come amid growing public debate over who truly controls Nairobi’s development agenda.
In recent months, President Ruto has personally overseen several high profile projects in the city, including road works, housing initiatives, and market upgrades.
While supporters argue this shows strong national commitment to improving the capital, critics say it exposes weaknesses in county leadership.
Political analysts view Babu Owino’s statement as part of a broader opposition strategy to portray Governor Sakaja as politically subordinate to the national government.
They argue that Nairobi, being the country’s economic hub, has become a stage for power struggles between county and national leadership.
On the other hand, allies of the President have dismissed the remarks as political theatrics, insisting that Ruto’s involvement in Nairobi is necessary to fast track development and improve service delivery.
They maintain that cooperation between the national and county governments should not be mistaken for control.
Babu Owino’s bold claim has since sparked lively discussions on social media, with Kenyans divided between those who see truth in his words and those who believe he is simply stirring controversy for political mileage.
As Nairobi continues to face challenges such as congestion, housing shortages, and service delivery concerns, the question of who truly governs the city remains a powerful political narrative.
Whether Babu Owino’s remarks were meant as satire or serious criticism, they have once again placed Nairobi’s leadership under the national spotlight.
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