Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has decried the government’s decision to withdraw his official security detail, terming the move as a direct attack on democratic freedoms and an attempt to intimidate elected leaders who stand with the people.
Babu took to social media, saying, “This is not just an attack on me, but on democracy itself,” linking the withdrawal to his active participation in nationwide protests marking the one-year anniversary of the June 2024 demonstrations against the Finance Bill.
For the second year in a row, the outspoken legislator marched alongside thousands of Kenyans to remember those killed by police brutality in recent weeks and during the 2024 protests.
At the height of last year’s unrest, Babu Owino made headlines for leaping over the National Assembly fence to join protesting youth, while the majority of his colleagues sought refuge inside Parliament buildings.
This year, he marched alongside demonstrators to honor the memory of fallen protestors and call on the government to provide justice and accountability.
“When elected representatives are punished for standing with the people, it is a sign of a government that fears accountability, not one that serves,” Babu said, adding his voice to a growing list of opposition leaders criticizing the administration’s handling of dissent.
The MP reiterated that he would not be intimidated into silence and promised to keep advocating for justice.
In a rallying cry for citizens, he emphasized vigilance, unity, and continued pressure on leaders to uphold democratic values.
“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 movement for justice cannot be stopped. We will not back down,” he stated defiantly.
