The long-standing debate over who would inherit the political mantle of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Luo Nyanza has taken a new turn following the release of a fresh opinion poll.
As discussions about leadership succession in the post-Raila era intensify, a new Infotrak survey has placed an unexpected name at the top of the list.
For decades, Raila Odinga has been regarded as the undisputed political kingpin of the Luo community, commanding loyalty across Nyanza and beyond.
However, with conversations increasingly shifting towards the future of Luo leadership, several senior politicians have been seen positioning themselves as potential successors.
Contrary to expectations, the Infotrak poll has ranked Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino as the most preferred figure to take over the Luo political leadership.
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According to the survey, Babu Owino garnered 33 per cent support, placing him far ahead of more seasoned leaders traditionally viewed as Raila’s natural heirs.
Oburu Odinga, Raila’s elder brother and a long-time political ally, came a distant second with 10 per cent.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga followed with 7 per cent, while Siaya Governor James Orengo, a veteran opposition figure and close confidant of Raila, polled only 4 per cent. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo trailed with 2 per cent.
Political analysts attribute Babu Owino’s strong showing to his popularity among the youth, his combative parliamentary style, and his strong presence on social media platforms.
His supporters argue that he represents a new generation of leadership capable of mobilising younger voters while sustaining the opposition’s traditional base.
The poll results are expected to spark debate within the Orange Democratic Party and across Luo Nyanza, where unity has historically revolved around Raila’s leadership.
While analysts caution that polls do not always translate directly into electoral outcomes, the findings signal a possible shift in grassroots political sentiment.
As succession discussions continue, it is clear that the battle for Luo political leadership is far from settled.
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