Nairobi, June 26- Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has accused the government of political retaliation following the withdrawal of his official security. In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, the outspoken legislator said the move was punishment for his participation in the June 25 protests, which marked the one-year anniversary of last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
“Yesterday, I stood with the people not against the nation, but for its future,” Babu wrote. “Today, in retaliation, the government has withdrawn my official security.”
He framed the action not as a personal attack, but as an assault on Kenya’s democratic values. “When elected representatives are punished for standing with the people, it is a sign of a government that fears accountability, not one that serves,” he said.
Babu, who has been vocal on the streets and in Parliament, marched with thousands of Kenyans during the June 25 protests to honour victims of police brutality and demand justice and reforms. His message to the state was clear: intimidation will not silence him.
“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,” he declared. “Kenyans are my security.”
He also issued a rallying cry to the public, urging citizens to remain vigilant and united. “Your leaders should answer to you, not threaten those who stand beside you,” he said. “The truth cannot be suppressed. The movement for justice cannot be stopped. We will not back down.”
The move to withdraw Babu Owino’s security detail has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups, who view it as part of a broader crackdown on dissenting voices.
Babu’s remarks come at a time when tensions between the government and the youth-led protest movement remain high, with many young Kenyans demanding more accountability, transparency, and protection of their constitutional rights.
