NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 4 — Embakasi East MP Babu Owino says that he was assaulted with a firearm by Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai during a confrontation at a restaurant along Lenana Road, Kilimani.
He described the attack as a direct threat to his life and called for police to investigate.
In a statement, Owino, who is a Nairobi gubernatorial aspirant, said the incident occurred at approximately 3:40 pm on Saturday, when he had gone to meet a senior clergyman.
Having released his security detail for the festive season, he arrived at the venue alone.
According to Owino, the confrontation began after he courteously greeted a group at a nearby table, including MCA Alai.
Alai allegedly accused him of being behind social media attacks on his wife, which Owino strongly denied.
“I do not know his wife, I have never wronged her, and I do not involve family members in politics,” Owino said.
PRESS STATEMENTSUSTAINED CAMPAIGN OF VIOLENCE AGAINST BABU OWINOI wish to inform the public of a disturbing incident that occurred yesterday, which I consider a direct attack on my person and a grave threat to my life.Yesterday afternoon, a friend of mine who is a senior
He said Alai then pushed him, drew a pistol, and struck him on the chest and jaw, all in view of restaurant patrons.
The legislator attempted to de-escalate the situation, urging Alai to explain his aggression.
However, Owino alleges that Alai later poured a glass of water on his face before he left for Kilimani Police Station to report the incident.
“This forms a clear pattern of physical harassment, threats and attacks that began upon the demise of our beloved Baba. Kenyans will recall that goons were organized by the Government to attack me during that burial in Siaya – a threat that I braved due to the love I had for Baba,” the Embakasi MP said.
Pattern of political harassment, says Owino
Owino linked the attack to what he described as a sustained campaign of intimidation following the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga.
He recalled a previous incident in Siaya County during Raila’s burial, where he claimed goons targeted him for political reasons.
“This forms a clear pattern of physical harassment, threats, and attacks,” he said.
He urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and take action in accordance with the law.
“As leaders, we are expected to set an example for society. Our calm should never be mistaken for fear,” he added.
Police have not yet issued a statement following the incident. It is not clear whether Alai is a registered firearm holder.
