By Staff Reporter
Police have launched investigations into an alleged threat to life reported by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino following a confrontation involving a firearm with Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai at a restaurant along Lenana Road in Nairobi.
In a statement, Owino said the incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon in the Kilimani area after he attended a brief meeting with a senior clergyman. He said he had driven himself to the venue after releasing his security detail for the Christmas holidays.
According to the MP, the confrontation began as he was leaving the restaurant and greeted a group of acquaintances seated at a nearby table, among them Alai. He alleged that the MCA accused him, without evidence, of orchestrating social media attacks against his wife.
“I calmly explained that I do not know his wife, that she has never wronged me in any way, and that I have no reason whatsoever to involve innocent family members in politics,” Owino said, adding that attacking women was not part of his political approach.
Owino claimed the exchange quickly escalated, alleging that Alai became aggressive, pushed him, drew a pistol and struck him on the chest and jaw in full view of other patrons.
He said attempts to calm the situation briefly succeeded after another person intervened, but alleged that the MCA later poured a glass of water on his face, attracting the attention of other customers.
Fearing further escalation, Owino said he left the restaurant and reported the matter at Kilimani Police Station.
“I take this incident very seriously. It was an unprovoked attack on my person, motivated by my political stand, and constituted a clear threat to my life,” he said, calling on authorities to investigate and take action.
The legislator linked the incident to what he described as a pattern of harassment following the death of opposition leader Raila Odinga’s father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, recalling an earlier attack on him during the burial in Siaya.
“As leaders, we are expected to set an example for society,” Owino said. “However, our calm should never be mistaken for fear. We will always stand our ground in defence of our lives, our dignity, and the rule of law.”
Confirming the investigations, Kilimani Sub-County Police Commander Patricia Yegon said both leaders had recorded statements, and officers would interview patrons and staff at the establishment to establish the facts.