Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has broken his silence after he was reportedly denied an opportunity to speak during the funeral service of the late Beryl Odinga, sister to former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
The burial ceremony, held at Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Bondo, Siaya County, drew national attention as leaders, dignitaries and hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their final respects to the late Beryl, who passed away at Nairobi Hospital following an undisclosed illness.
Despite the tense political undercurrents surrounding Luo succession politics, Babu Owino received an electrifying welcome upon arrival.
Mourners erupted into cheers, with many chanting his name as he made his way into the venue. His reception reflected his growing political influence in the region, where he is increasingly viewed as one of the youthful leaders seeking to shape the community’s post-Raila political direction.
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However, drama unfolded when the outspoken legislator was not included in the list of leaders allowed to address the gathering.
While several local and national leaders were given time to speak, Owino’s name was conspicuously missing, raising eyebrows among mourners and fueling speculation about internal political tensions.
Even so, Winnie Odinga, EALA MP and daughter of Raila Odinga, publicly acknowledged Babu Owino during her tribute, prompting another wave of loud cheers from the crowd.
Her recognition was interpreted by many as a subtle message about his presence and growing relevance, despite the attempt to sideline him.
Hours after the ceremony, Babu Owino issued a heartfelt statement clarifying his stance and expressing solidarity with the Odinga family. He emphasized that his presence at the funeral was not about politics but about offering comfort and respect to a bereaved family he holds in high regard.
“Today we gathered with heavy hearts to stand with the Odinga family as they mourned the loss of their beloved Beryl Odinga,” he said. “In moments like these, words often feel small in the face of such deep sorrow, yet we speak because our presence and our voices carry love, solidarity, and comfort. May God comfort the Odinga’s.”
His calm and conciliatory tone has been praised by supporters who view it as a sign of maturity amid rising political competition within the Luo community.
Whether the funeral incident will deepen or ease political tensions remains to be seen, but it has undeniably amplified conversations about the region’s future leadership.
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