Babu Owino mourns late cabinet minister Dalmas Otieno
By Arnold Ngure, September 7, 2025Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has mourned the late former Rongo MP Dalmas Otieno and cabinet minister Dalmas Otieno.
In a statement on Sunday, September 7, 2025, Babu Owino hailed the late Otieno as a visionary public servant and a beacon of wisdom and strength.
“Dalmas Otieno was more than a title, more than a position, and more than the responsibilities he carried. He was a visionary, a servant, a voice of wisdom, and a beacon of strength. He led not just with his mind, but with his heart, with compassion, courage, and unwavering integrity,” Babu Owino remarked.
Selfless leader
“In moments of uncertainty, he brought clarity. In times of division, he was a bridge. When challenges arose, he faced them head-on, not for personal glory, but for the good of those he was called to serve,” he stated.
“He didn’t just lead, he inspired. He didn’t just speak; he lived his values. He didn’t just leave behind accomplishments; he left a legacy. May he rest well.”
The former cabinet minister died at his home in Karen, Nairobi, on Sunday, September 7, 2025, after suffering a pressure-related condition, according to a statement from his family.
Otieno’s political career mirrored the ebb and flow of Kenya’s and Migori’s shifting political tides.
Political career
He entered national politics in 1988 under controversial circumstances, reportedly rigged in as Rongo MP on a KANU ticket, replacing his cousin, Linus Aluoch Polo alias Polo Piach, a Ford Kenya stalwart.
Despite this turbulent beginning, Otieno quickly rose through the ranks, earning a cabinet position under President Daniel Arap Moi. His technocratic competence and calm demeanour earned him the moniker, ‘Wacho gi timo’ (loosely translated as saying and actioning).
Before his death, Otieno had lost one of his wives last year and was currently living with another wife, Dorothy Otieno, a former County public service minister in Homabay County and now a UDA member, who is eyeing the Migori County woman rep seat.
Otieno has equally been mourned by leaders across the political divide, including retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, ODM Party leader Raila Odinga, and President William Ruto.