BABU SALUTES LATE FATHER, MOTHER AND RAILA IN MASHUJAA TRIBUTE

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has paid tribute to his late father, Dominic Owino, while recognising his mother, Doris Owino, his wife, Fridah Ongili, and the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga for the roles they have played in shaping his life.

In messages shared on social media on Tuesday, October 20, as Kenyans marked Mashujaa Day, the legislator reflected on the personal sacrifices, guidance and support that have helped him navigate life and his political career.

Babu shared a photograph of his late father, recalling that he lost him while he was still in Class Three, a childhood experience that left his family facing difficult circumstances.

Despite his early death, Dominic remained an important figure in the MP's life. Babu remembered him as a hardworking father who did his best to provide for his family and ensure his children were cared for.

The legislator expressed gratitude for the memories and love his father left behind, while wishing he had lived long enough to witness his achievements and the person his son eventually became.

He described his late father as a personal hero whose sacrifices continue to influence his life.

The MP also recognised his mother, Doris, for the determination she showed in raising the family after her husband's death.

According to Babu, his mother sold chang'aa to provide food and pay his school fees, taking on the responsibility of keeping the family going during a difficult period.

He recalled how she stayed up late with him to ensure he studied, making sacrifices whose full significance he only came to understand as he grew older.

In his tribute, Babu credited her persistence for helping him reach the milestones he has achieved.

"Mum, every step I take and every milestone I achieve carries a piece of your sacrifice. If I have come this far, it is because you refused to give up on me. I can never repay you for everything you have done. Wewe ni shujaa wangu," he wrote.

The legislator's message highlighted the contribution of parents whose efforts often go unnoticed but play a significant role in shaping their children's futures.

Babu also used the national celebrations to honour Raila Odinga, whom he credited with influencing his political journey and giving him an opportunity to serve under his leadership.

The MP described the former prime minister as more than a political leader, saying he had become a father figure who offered guidance, advice and encouragement.

He thanked Raila for believing in younger leaders and allowing them to learn from his experience, adding that the veteran politician's contribution to Kenya's political development would continue to inspire future generations.

Babu's tribute underscored the lasting influence of Raila's mentorship on leaders who worked alongside him and those who looked up to him throughout his political career.

Beyond remembering his father and recognising his political mentor, Babu expressed appreciation for his wife, Fridah Ongili, whom he described as a source of strength and stability during challenging moments.

He credited her with standing by him when life became difficult and offering him peace amid uncertainty. He also thanked her for being a wonderful mother to their children.

"You hold me when the world feels heavy and understand me even when others don't. You give me strength when I feel weak and peace when everything around me seems uncertain," he said.

The message offered a glimpse into the personal relationships the MP considers central to his life beyond politics.

Babu concluded by extending his Mashujaa Day tribute to ordinary Kenyans who make sacrifices for their families, noting that heroism is not limited to people in uniform or those who hold public office.

"Some heroes wear uniforms. Others sacrifice their comfort, dreams and happiness to give their families a better life. Today, we honour you all," Babu added.

His message brought together memories of a father he lost in childhood, appreciation for a mother who persevered through hardship, gratitude for a wife who supports him and recognition of a political mentor whose influence remains significant.

Through the tribute, the Embakasi East MP highlighted the many forms of heroism celebrated on Mashujaa Day, from the sacrifices made within families to the guidance and leadership that help shape the country's next generation.