Embakasi East MP Babu Owino appeared as a visible figure on the ground, quietly positioning himself to engage Raila's traditional support.
His rallies in Siaya drew enormous numbers, with speeches hinting at unity and direction while without sketching out a precise blueprint
The death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, a towering figure who shaped the region's politics for more than three decades, has created instability throughout Luo Nyanza.
For nearly 30 years, he served not only as a leader, but also as Nyanza's political compass, guiding coalitions, candidates, and causes.
Raila's influence in the region was so strong that for years, political ambition typically meant being close to the former premier.
His passing has left a void that will be difficult to fill, and any leader who steps into that space must unite a politically aware electorate with high expectations and strong emotional attachments to Raila's legacy.
As leaders test the waters, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino emerges as one of the most conspicuous voices attempting to speak to the moment and the people Raila once easily mobilized.
Despite his tumultuous connection with Raila near the end of the veteran politician's life, Babu's name has frequently been mentioned as a potential successor in political circles.
While he remained a faithful follower, the MP appeared to have moved away from Raila's close inner circle in his final days due to differences on the broad-based agreement.