Sakaja Explains his Relationship With Babu Owino

Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja on Thursday explained his relationship with Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino.

In an interview with Capital FM, the legislator sighted that he has always had a friendship with Babu since their days at University of Nairobi.

Sakaja was responding following criticism from a section of Jubilee lawmakers after securing the release of Owino from police cells.

"Owino is not only a leader in Nairobi but he is first a resident in Nairobi. Securing his release from prison is not an issue which should have been politicized,” noted Sakaja.

He added that he was obliged to come to the aid of Owino since he is a leader who is serving in Nairobi.

[caption caption="File image of Nairobi Senator Johnson Sakaja and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino after his release."][/caption]

Sakaja also slammed claims by some of his party members - Jubilee Party - that he is an Opposition sympathizer.

On Wednesday Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria and his Kikuyu counterpart, Kimani Ichung’wah, highlighted their displeasure on Sakaja's involvement in the release of Babu.

In his response, Sakaja mentioned that his action was justified and he criticized the duo for playing petty politics.

“It is really unfortunate that the two leaders had to politicize the issue,” expressed Sakaja. 

Babu Owino was arrested on January 11, for allegedly assaulting one David Wagana, a parking attendant at Fortis Towers compound in Westlands.

The former student leader was arraigned in court on Monday where he pleaded not guilty.

[caption caption="Embakasi East MP Babu Owino in court"][/caption]

The first time lawmaker dismissed the allegations, claiming that it was all a 'well-choreographed ploy' by his enemies to taint his image.

Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko also defended Sakaja affirming that he was exercising his democratic right and he should not be judged for doing so.

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