ODM welcomes Tina Ogal seeking to succeed Babu Owino in Embakasi East
By Kenneth Mwenda, April 28, 2026Veteran radio presenter Tina Ogal has joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and signalled interest in contesting the Embakasi East parliamentary seat, adding fresh energy to what is shaping up to be one of Nairobi’s most competitive political races ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party confirmed her entry on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, during a meeting where its acting Secretary General, Catherine Omanyo, received new aspirants. Ogal, a long-serving broadcaster and media manager, joined alongside other hopefuls from Nairobi and other counties as ODM continues its internal reorganisation and recruitment drive.
Tina Ogal is best known for her 21-year career in broadcasting, where she rose from presenter to Head of Radio. She has built a reputation as a strong Kiswahili voice and a media leader who has managed both newsroom work and senior editorial responsibilities.
In a recent media feature, Ogal said her career began with self-doubt, especially over her ability to present in Kiswahili. She said she overcame this through preparation, repetition and discipline. Over time, she moved from reading scripts carefully written in advance to managing large teams and editorial decisions.
Her shift into politics has been gradual. While she has not previously held elective office, she has publicly spoken about leadership, public service and governance. In earlier interviews, she confirmed that she was preparing for a transition from media into leadership roles, although she did not name the specific seat at the time.
Her entry into ODM now confirms her political direction, with Embakasi East emerging as her target.
ODM opens political space
Inside ODM, party officials say the recruitment of new figures is part of a wider effort to “rejuvenate” the party and open space for professionals from different sectors. The announcement was made by acting Secretary General Catherine Nakhabi Omanyo, who has taken charge of party administration after a recent leadership shake-up.
Omanyo has pushed for wider inclusion of professionals, youth and grassroots leaders into party structures. Her role places her at the centre of candidate recruitment and early mobilisation ahead of nominations.
ODM’s leadership says it wants to expand participation in its ticket selection process and avoid closed-door nominations. The party has framed the exercise as part of strengthening internal democracy and broadening its urban support base.
The group has also drawn in media personality Willis Raburu, who has been mentioned in early discussions around the Kisumu Senate race.
Succeeding Babu Owino
At the same time, Embakasi East is emerging as a high-stakes constituency. Current MP Babu Owino has declared interest in running for Nairobi governor in 2027, leaving the seat open and attracting several contenders.
Political activists, former aspirants and local leaders have already begun positioning themselves. Among those mentioned are youth political organiser Calvin Gaucho, former aspirant Rashid Kotote, Embakasi ward MCA Ricardo Nyantika, Upper Savannah MCA Stazo Elijah Omung’ala, and former aspirant Francis Mureithi.
The growing list reflects a crowded field where party nominations are likely to decide the final outcome.
Analysts say Ogal’s entry adds a new dynamic because of her media background and public profile. Unlike most early aspirants who come from local ward politics, she brings national visibility built through radio broadcasting.