Babu Owino’s resignation leaves SONU in the dark

Babu Owino (pictured) announced his resignation from The Students Organization of Nairobi University (SONU) on May 1, following his successful JODM nomination for Embakasi East MP. Since then, there is a widely-held perception that there has been a power vacuum in the university’s politics, one that will be difficult to fill. His departure, made to pave way for his entry into national politics, could not have come at a worse time for the university.

In January, a section of student leaders from universities across the country moved to court to challenge a Bill in the Universities Ammendment Act introduced in Parliament, which would effectively disband the SGC in its current state. While a number of universities have gone on with their elections, University of Nairobi opted to wait for the matter to be decided in court. The elections are yet to be held.

Felix Apiyo, the former Sonu Secretary General, believes this is a key failing by Babu Owino.

“He has left student politics without making sure elections are held. He has not done anything to ensure there is new student leadership. This has caused some animosity among the students, as some feel it is his way of safeguarding his legacy,” he says.

Apiyo is considered the frontrunner for Sonu Chairman, but he is adamant he will not run if the Bill is passed.

“That law is the death of student politics. A chairman needs to have power; with the new system, he will only be accountable to around 16 people.” The University has in the meantime appointed a temporary committee, headed by a caretaker, to run the institution until the elections are done.

According to Silvance Abeta, Director of Communications for the union, Babu Owino was a singular figure who will not be replaced easily. “There is definitely a vacuum. Babu has been a big name, at the university and beyond. He has been at the frontline for a long time. It will be very hard to find someone who will have the same impact with students.”

This opinion is shared by Irene Kendi, the former Vice Chair of the union. The fiery, outspoken lady, who now works at COTU, supports the move to disband student organisations.

“SONU has been a battleground for politicians. For the sake of peace during the election period, it might be best for SONU to remain defunct.”

Whatever happens, it seems the antics of the former chairman, who has been in office since 2011, will be hard to replicate.