Babu Owino: Opposition not compromised

Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Paul Ongili Owino. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The Opposition will remain intact and conduct its oversight role despite its chief Raila Odinga's interest in the African Union Commission chairmanship.

Speaking on KTN News on Wednesday night, Embakasi East MP Paul Ongili alias Babu Owino denied allegations that the opposition (Azimio la Umoja Coalition) has joined forces with the government.

He referenced an incident where MPs from the Opposition staged a walk-out of Parliament during the third hearing session of the controversial housing levy.

"The opposition is not compromised, everybody has a dream and a vision. Baba [Raila's] dream is to be the chairman of the AU Commission," he stated.

"If we are in bed with the government, why would we walk out during the housing levy discussion?"

Babu added that President Ruto has the right to campaign for any candidate for the AU position.

The lawmaker, however, said that he still finds it difficult to support Ruto because he has his principles but would support Odinga's decision.

He implied that getting the right replacement for Odinga might not be as easy a task as some might imagine.

The Embakasi East MP remarked in the back of confusion within Azimio over the next party leader to succeed Odinga should he clinch the AU Commission seat.

On Thursday, Odinga endorsed his deputies Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya to lead ODM should his AU chairmanship bid succeed.