Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP) Babu Owino has taken a direct swipe at President William Ruto, questioning his commitment to the fight against corruption while allegedly protecting individuals accused of graft.
Speaking on Kameme TV on Thursday, September 4, 2025, Babu Owino argued that the President cannot claim to champion transparency and accountability when his inner circle is, in his words, “stinking of corruption.”
The lawmaker cited recent revelations at the Social Health Authority (SHA), where billions of shillings are alleged to have been lost through fraudulent claims, including payments to ghost hospitals. He noted that such scandals have left public hospitals struggling with shortages of essential medicines and equipment.
“You are the President of Kenya, and we respect you as President. But when you look around you, you see the graves of corruption. SHA is losing billions while Kenyans suffer,” Babu said.
Beyond the health sector, Babu Owino also pointed to education, where capitation funds meant for schools reportedly fail to reach classrooms, with some allegedly diverted to non-existent institutions.
The MP did not spare Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, whom he accused of being a symbol of corruption in Nairobi County. He criticized President Ruto for allegedly shielding Sakaja from an ouster by hosting Members of County Assembly (MCAs) at State House.
“If the President is protecting a corrupt governor at State House, how can he fight graft? He is promoting corruption instead,” Babu charged.
Babu Owino maintained that unless President Ruto stops shielding allies accused of mismanaging public funds, Kenya’s war on corruption will remain a political mirage.
His remarks come at a time when debates on graft are intensifying, with opposition leaders demanding greater accountability across government institutions.
