Babu Owino wants action against alleged assault in Kilimani

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino wants police to take serious his report on alleged assault incident at a restaurant in Nairobi’s Kilimani area.

He says the episode posed a serious threat to his life and should be thoroughly investigated by police.

In a statement released on Sunday, Mr Owino said the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon along Lenana Road.

He had gone for a private meeting after releasing his security detail for the Christmas holidays.

“I wish to inform the public of a disturbing incident that I consider a direct attack on my person and a grave threat to my life,” the MP said.

According to the statement, Mr Owino said that as he was leaving the restaurant, he greeted a group of people he knew. He alleged that the encounter escalated into a confrontation after he was accused by the Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai of being behind alleged social media attacks involving a family member.

“I calmly explained that I do not know his wife, that she has never wronged me, and that I have no reason whatsoever to involve innocent family members in politics,” Mr Owino said.

He added that he holds women in high regard and does not advance his politics through personal attacks.

Mr Owino further alleged that the confrontation turned hostile in full view of other patrons, prompting him to leave the premises to avoid further escalation and report the matter to Kilimani Police Station.

“Upon witnessing the escalation of events and wishing to avoid any physical confrontation, I immediately left the premises and proceeded to the police station,” he said.

The MP said the incident should be treated with seriousness and investigated in accordance with the law, adding that leaders have a responsibility to set an example for society.

“As leaders, we are expected to know better. Our calm should never be mistaken for fear. We will always stand our ground in defence of our lives, dignity, and the rule of law,” he said.

By the time of publication, police had not issued an official statement on the reported incident, and no arrests or charges had been announced.