Paul Ongili Owino, famously known as Babu Owino, is a prominent and controversial Kenyan politician who has made headlines for his extensive advocacy for university students and his long tenure as a student leader. He currently serves as the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East Constituency.

Early Life:

Babu Owino was born and raised in Nyalenda, Kisumu County. He attended Kisumu Township Primary School from 1995 to 2002. Later, in 2003, he joined Kisumu Boys Secondary School, where he completed his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) in 2006.

Through a scholarship, Babu pursued A levels under the Cambridge system, eventually earning six diplomas. In 2008, he enrolled at the University of Nairobi to study Actuarial Science, graduating in 2012. He continued his studies at the same university, pursuing a Law Degree, and later revealed that he also obtained Masters in Actuarial Science and Law.

Political Career:

Babu Owino ventured into politics in 2011 when he was elected Chairman of the Student Organization of Nairobi University (SONU). He was re-elected three times, becoming one of the most admired student leaders in Kenya. He also served as the University Students Organization Chairman.

In 2013, Babu contested the ODM Party nomination in Westlands Constituency but lost to Tim Wanyonyi. In August 2017, he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Embakasi East on an ODM ticket.

Family:

Babu Owino's parents did not come from a wealthy background, and he was raised by his mother. Unfortunately, there is limited information available about his father, who passed away when Babu was young. He is currently married to Frida Muthoni, and the couple has been blessed with children.

Net Worth:

While Babu Owino has not publicly disclosed his net worth, as an MP, he earns approximately Ksh 710,000 in gross salary according to the Salaries and Remuneration Commission. This includes allowances, such as Sh150,000 for housing and Sh426,000 for basic allowances.

Clash with Raila Odinga:

As a prominent member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Babu Owino faced scrutiny and consequences after failing to appear in parliament to vote for the Finance Bill 2023. Along with 27 other MPs, he was given a 48-hour ultimatum by the party to provide a defense for their actions.