Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has emerged as the most preferred successor to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, according to a new opinion poll by research firm Infotrak.

The survey, released on Sunday, December 28, 2025, offers a snapshot of how Kenyans view the future leadership of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) at a time when conversations about succession are quietly gaining momentum across the political landscape.

The study was conducted through quantitative interviews using computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI). Infotrak sampled 1,000 adults drawn from all 47 counties and the country’s eight regions. Respondents were asked to name who they believe is best placed to take over from Raila Odinga as the face and leader of the movement.

According to the results, 33 per cent of those interviewed picked Babu Owino as their preferred choice. The outcome stands out because Owino has, on several occasions, taken positions that differ from official ODM party lines, including publicly opposing the broad-based government arrangement.

Despite this, a significant number of respondents still see him as the strongest heir to Raila’s political influence, pointing to his visibility, outspoken style, and appeal to younger voters.

Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, who currently serves as the ODM party leader, came a distant second with 10 per cent. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga followed with 7 per cent, while Siaya Governor James Orengo garnered 4 per cent. Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi and Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo each received 2 per cent support. Treasury CS John Mbadi, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and EALA MP Winnie Odinga each attracted 1 per cent.

The regional breakdown of the results paints an interesting picture of Owino’s support base. Nairobi recorded the highest backing for him at 49 per cent, followed by Western Kenya at 35 per cent. In Rift Valley, 33 per cent of respondents viewed him as Raila’s best successor, while in Nyanza, traditionally considered Raila’s stronghold, 32 per cent shared the same view.

The findings suggest that while ODM remains deeply rooted in its traditional bases, opinions on future leadership are evolving. With Raila Odinga’s long political career entering its later chapters, the survey highlights a growing national conversation about who carries his legacy forward and how that leadership may look in a changing political era.