Babu Owino's security withdrawn over 'protests support'

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino at Parliament buildings on March 12, 2025. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Paul Ongili, popularly known as Babu Owino, claims the government has withdrawn his security detail.

Babu alleged that the move was a response to his participation in Wednesday's protests, that marked the anniversary of the June 2024 protests.

"Yesterday, I stood with the people, not against the nation, but for its future. I exercised my democratic right to protest peacefully against the actions of a government that is failing its citizens. Today, in retaliation, the government has withdrawn my official security," he wrote on X.

He termed the incident an attack on democracy, vowing not to be silenced.

"I do not fear intimidation. I will not be silenced. My voice, and the voice of every citizen demanding justice, fairness, and freedom, will only grow louder. Kenyans are my security," he said.

The lawmaker said he joined the protests in solidarity with the youth, calling it a peaceful exercise of his constitutional rights.

His remarks come amid reports that security details of other elected leaders being withdrawn from over the criticism of the current administration.

Owino urged Kenyans to remain united and vigilant in the ongoing push for justice.

"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," he said.

The MP cum lawyer has been a vocal supporter of the Gen Z protest movement and has repeatedly called for justice for victims of police brutality and state excesses during the demonstrations.