Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni on Tuesday caused laughter at State House in Nairobi when he slammed Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino labeling him as clueless.
The vocal lawmaker has in the recent past shown his support towards Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine which appeared to have attracted the ire of the long-serving president.
"There are some individuals in Raila’s group whom I don't think they know what they are doing," Museveni posed.
"You know I am a consumer of intelligence reports and every time I see Babu. I have never chosen him but I saw him dealing with an anti Ugandan group so I chose him," Museveni stated referencing recent Gen Z protests that inspired youth in Uganda.
Babu has publicly declared his support for Bobi Wine’s movement and ideologies that Museveni has tried to contain by all means including arbitrary arrests and home surrounding the musician turned politician's home.
Museveni who was making his remarks after officially declaring support for Raila Odinga who is seeking to clinch the African Union Commission (AUC)seat claimed that he was not intending to mention Babu in the first place.
“I have never accused him, but now I am accusing him.” Museveni added referring to what seemingly has been a discontent he has been having with the Kenyan lawmaker.
On September 25, 2020, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino declared his support for Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine. At the time, Bobi Wine, had become a significant figure in Ugandan politics, challenging President Yoweri Museveni's long-standing rule.
Babu Owino, known for his outspoken nature and alignment with youth-driven movements, expressed admiration for Bobi Wine’s efforts to bring change to Uganda.
The Kenyan MP's endorsement was significant as it showcased a regional solidarity among young politicians pushing for political reform and challenging long-entrenched leadership.
Bobi Wine's campaign resonated with many across East Africa, particularly the youth, who were eager for democratic reforms and greater freedoms. Babu's support was seen as aligning with this broader movement for change.
Wine’s rising popularity had already put pressure on Museveni, and Babu’s endorsement added to the momentum of the opposition’s calls for an end to Museveni’s lengthy rule.
