Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has revealed that his security detail has been withdrawn, alleging the move may be linked to his involvement in the June 25 protests, which took place yesterday.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 26, the outspoken lawmaker criticised the government over the withdrawal, terming it an attack on democracy.
“Yesterday, I stood with the people, not against the nation, but for its future. I exercised my democratic right to protest peacefully against the actions of a government that is failing its citizens,” Owino stated.
"Today, in retaliation, the government has withdrawn my official security,” the MP further claimed.
By removing his assigned guard, the MP, who was seen in the protests in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), posited that going after elected leaders who stood with their people was a sign “of a government that fears accountability, not one that serves.”
Footage obtained by Kenyans.co.ke showed Owino being carried shoulder-high after making an entry to the protests. He was swarmed by protesting youths who carried him as they engaged in song and dance.
The protests were being held in honour of Gen Zs who lost their lives in last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. The protests, which went on throughout the day, saw police engage protesters in running battles in the city and other areas of the country as they aimed to prevent chaos.
The protests left as many as 11 people dead and several injured. Families who lost their loved ones in last year’s demos lamented over their inability to present official petitions to Parliament, after police put up enhanced measures to bar entry.
Even so, Owino expressed his resolve to continue standing up for the people, stating that his security came from Kenyans. He further urged leaders not to cower in the face of government intimidation.
“I do not fear intimidation. I will not be silenced. My voice, and the voice of every citizen demanding justice, fairness, and freedom, will only grow louder. Kenyans are my security,” he asserted.
Owino also called on Kenyans to stand up for their rights and hold their leaders accountable, reiterating his support for the push for better leadership and governance.
“To the public: stay alert, stay united, and know that your leaders should answer to you, not threaten those who stand beside you. The truth cannot be suppressed. The justice movement cannot be stopped,” he noted.
In the recent past, Babu Owino has seemingly expressed his interest in running for higher office in the upcoming elections whilst being a constant critic of current Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja over the running of the nation’s capital.
