Africa-Press – Kenya. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has reported what he describes as an unprovoked attack on him at a restaurant in Nairobi’s Kilimani area.
In a press statement issued today, Sunday, the legislator said the incident occurred Saturday afternoon along Lenana Road.
He said he had gone for a meeting with a senior clergyman at the restaurant after releasing his security detail for the Christmas holidays.
According to the statement, the meeting lasted about 20 minutes. As he prepared to leave at about 3:40 pm, the MP said he noticed a group of people he knew seated at a nearby table.
He said he approached the table to greet them. Among those present, he said, was a city MCA.
The MP said the MCA accused him of being behind alleged social media attacks on the MCA’s wife.
He said he denied the claim and told the MCA that he did not know his wife and had no reason to involve family members in politics.
In the statement, the MP said the situation then escalated.
He alleged that the MCA became aggressive, pushed him, drew a firearm, and struck him on the chest and jaw. He said this happened in full view of other patrons at the restaurant.
The MP said he asked the MCA to calm down and explain the reason for the confrontation.
He said the MCA appeared to settle briefly, and they sat down with another person positioned between them.
He further alleged that moments later, the MCA again became hostile and poured a glass of water on his face. He said a crowd had gathered by then due to the disturbance.
The MP said he chose to leave the restaurant to avoid a physical confrontation. He said he proceeded to Kilimani Police Station, where he reported the matter.
“I take this incident very seriously,” the MP said in the statement. He described the incident as an attack on his person and a threat to his life.
He called on relevant authorities to investigate the matter and take action in accordance with the law.
The MP also said he believes the incident forms part of a pattern of harassment and threats against him following the death of a senior political figure he referred to as “Baba.” He cited a previous incident in Siaya during a burial, where he said he was attacked by individuals he described as goons.
He said leaders have a duty to set a good example for society. He added that calmness should not be mistaken for fear.
On Sunday, Kilimani OCPD Patricia Yegon confirmed that the MP and his alleged assailant reported the incident, and investigations commenced immediately.
“We are currently at the scene reviewing the CCTV and taking statements as investigations continue,” Yegon said.
