Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has accused Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai of physically assaulting him during an altercation at a restaurant along Lenana Road in Nairobi’s Kilimani area.
In a statement released on Sunday, Owino said the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon at approximately 3:40 p.m., while he was meeting a senior clergyman at the venue. The MP noted that he had released his security detail for the Christmas holidays and had arrived at the restaurant alone.
“As I was departing, I noticed a group of people known to me seated at an adjacent table. Out of courtesy, I approached the table and greeted those present, including the MCA for Kileleshwa Ward, Hon. Robert Alai,” Owino said.
Alleged Confrontation
According to Owino, the encounter quickly turned hostile when Alai accused him of orchestrating social media attacks against his wife.
“Without provocation, he accused me of being behind alleged social media attacks on his wife. I calmly explained that I do not know his wife, that she has never wronged me, and that I have no reason to involve innocent family members in politics,” Owino stated.
He emphasized that he does not involve women in political disputes:
“It is not my style to advance my politics by attacking women. I hold our respected ladies in the highest regard.”
Alleged Physical Assault
Owino claims that Alai then became violent, pushing him, drawing a pistol, and striking him on the chest and jaw with the weapon in view of other patrons.
“Moments later, he again turned hostile, picked a glass of water from the table, and poured it on my face,” Owino added, noting that a crowd had gathered by this point.
Fearing further escalation, Owino left the restaurant and reported the matter at Kilimani Police Station.
“It was an unprovoked attack on my person, motivated by my political stand, and constituted a clear threat to my life,” he said, urging authorities to investigate thoroughly and take appropriate legal action.
Context of Alleged Harassment
Owino also linked the incident to what he described as a broader pattern of harassment following the death of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga.
“This forms a clear pattern of physical harassment, threats and attacks that began upon the demise of our beloved Baba,” he said, recalling previous attacks orchestrated during the burial in Siaya.
He concluded by stressing the responsibility of leaders to set an example while defending their rights:
“As leaders, we are expected to set an example for society. However, our calm should never be mistaken for fear. We will always stand our ground in defence of our lives, our dignity, and the rule of law.”
Authorities have yet to comment publicly on the matter, and it is expected that investigations will follow.
