Marcelo Bahati Explains Why He Tattooed Babu Owino's Face on His Back
Marcelo Bahati, a 25-year-old thrift seller and ardent Gen Z supporter of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, has revealed that he got a large tattoo of the lawmaker's face on his back as a profound tribute to his mentor.
In an exclusive interview with K24 Digital published on February 15, 2026, Bahati explained that the ink was done on February 9, 2026, by a professional artist and cost him around KSh 30,000 (KSh 25,000 for the tattoo itself plus KSh 5,000 for post-care medicine to prevent infection). The detailed portrait features Babu Owino's face alongside slogans like “Bila Babu Tabu” (Without Babu, there is trouble), emphasizing the MP's importance.
Bahati described Babu Owino as his mentor and “the father of many,” praising him for standing firm in the fight for Kenyans and championing the younger generation. He stated: “Babu is my mentor. I got the tattoo because of the good work he is doing and the love that I have for him.” The inspiration also extends beyond personal admiration—Bahati said he aimed to draw attention from other Gen Zs and mobilize them to advocate for a better Kenya. He added that the tattoo serves as a permanent symbol of his commitment, declaring he will live with it for the rest of his life despite facing mockery from some close associates.
The act has sparked mixed reactions, with some mocking Bahati online and in person, but he remains unapologetic, insisting that critics fail to understand Babu Owino's significance to ordinary Kenyans. This bold display of loyalty highlights a growing trend among Kenyan Gen Z supporters expressing extreme devotion to politicians amid the political climate ahead of future elections. Babu Owino has previously acknowledged similar gestures of support positively.
