If you’ve ever followed Kenyan politics, chances are you’ve heard the name Babu Owino. To some, he’s a fearless advocate for the youth and education. To others, he’s the guy who’s always a headline away from another controversy. But beyond the noise, there’s a story—a gritty, complicated, and surprisingly inspiring journey that begins in the informal settlements of Kisumu.
Paul Ongili Owino, better known as Babu Owino, was born on October 10, 1989, in Kondele, Kisumu County. Raised in Nyalenda, a tough neighborhood with little luxury, Babu grew up watching his mother hustle to provide for the family after the early death of his father. That kind of upbringing has a way of either breaking you or pushing you harder. For Babu, it was the latter.
He showed early signs of brilliance. At Kisumu Township Primary School, and later at Kisumu Boys’ High School, he was a standout student. By 2006, he had aced his KCSE with an A-, setting the stage for a future far bigger than the dusty streets he came from.
Education was always Babu’s ticket out—and he treated it like gold. Through scholarships and sheer determination, he managed to study under the British Cambridge A-level system, earning six diplomas in subjects like Pure Math, Chemistry, Mechanics, and Law.
He then joined the University of Nairobi to study Actuarial Science and graduated with First Class Honors in 2012. But he wasn’t done. He went back to pursue a Law degree, which he completed in 2017, and even picked up a Master’s in Actuarial Science. At last check, he was working on a second Master’s degree.
During the pandemic, while most people were lying low, Babu launched free online classes to help high school students prepare for exams. Love him or hate him, you can’t deny the man respects the power of education.
It was at the University of Nairobi where the political fire in Babu really caught flame. In 2011, he was elected Chairman of SONU (Students Organisation of Nairobi University). He held that seat multiple times, earning a reputation for being bold, brash, and unapologetically political.
His popularity among students translated into real influence. SONU wasn’t just a student body anymore—it was a launchpad into national politics.
Babu first tested national waters in 2013 when he went for the ODM nomination in Westlands Constituency. He didn’t win, but the loss didn’t slow him down. Four years later, in 2017, he ran for Member of Parliament for Embakasi East—and this time, he won.
He was re-elected in 2022, proving that his mix of intellect, street smarts, and sharp tongue had found a loyal audience. As an MP, he’s been loud and persistent, especially on issues like education reform, youth employment, and political accountability.
Off the political stage, Babu is a husband and father. He’s married to Frida Muthoni, whom he met during his university days. Those close to the couple say she’s his grounding force—intelligent, steady, and supportive, even in the face of public storms.
Together, they have two daughters. Babu also has a son from a previous relationship, bringing his total number of children to three.
Of course, you can’t talk about Babu Owino without diving into the controversies that have followed him like a shadow. His political career has been anything but smooth. He’s been in and out of courtrooms, headlines, and public debates.
The most infamous incident happened in January 2020, when CCTV footage captured him shooting DJ Evolve (Felix Orinda) at B-Club, a popular Nairobi nightclub. The video was graphic and disturbing. Public reaction was swift and furious.
Though he claimed self-defense, the damage was done. He was charged with attempted murder and later released on bail. By late 2021, it emerged that he and the victim had reached a civil settlement, with Babu agreeing to cover medical costs and provide ongoing support.
That wasn’t the only time Babu found himself in legal hot water.
In 2017, he was charged with hate speech after allegedly making offensive remarks about then-President Uhuru Kenyatta. He also had a public spat with fellow MP Moses Kuria, which led to a court case (he was acquitted). Then there were reports of physical altercations, like the 2018 fistfight in Parliament with MP Jaguar and an alleged assault on a parking attendant.
In 2021, journalists accused him of issuing threats after publishing critical stories about him. And in 2024, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) summoned him over claims of incitement and money laundering. That case fizzled out, but not before stirring more headlines.
Even within his own political family—ODM—Babu hasn’t always played by the rules. In 2023, he skipped a key parliamentary vote on the Finance Bill. The party was not amused. Along with 27 other MPs, he was issued a 48-hour ultimatum to explain himself or face disciplinary action. That moment exposed the tension between Babu’s independent streak and his party obligations.
As of 2026, Babu Owino’s estimated net worth is around $2.2 million. His income comes primarily from his MP salary, which includes a base pay and several allowances that total over Ksh 700,000 monthly. But politics isn’t his only hustle—he’s also involved in business, although details about his ventures remain mostly private.
Babu Owino is not your average politician. He’s complex, controversial, and charismatic. One minute he’s in court over a nightclub shooting, the next he’s live-streaming a math lesson for high schoolers. That duality—brains and bravado—defines his public image.
His story is messy, no doubt. But it’s also a powerful reminder that ambition can lift you far beyond your starting point, even if your path is littered with setbacks and scandal. For many young Kenyans watching him, he’s a symbol of what’s possible when you mix hustle with audacity.
Whether he ends up remembered as a visionary reformer or a cautionary tale, one thing’s for sure—Babu Owino isn’t done making noise.
I am Eddah, a professional blogger specializing in wealth analysis and financial insights. As a contributor to Fineducke.com, I explore the world’s richest individuals, their net worth, and financial moves shaping economies. With a keen eye for detail, I turn complex data into engaging, easy-to-read content that informs and inspires
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