Babu Owino has accused investigative authorities of intimidation following attempts to summon him for questioning in Kakamega over his recent political activities.
In a letter dated March 17 and addressed to the Western Regional Directorate of Criminal Investigations office, the Embakasi East legislator claimed that junior officers, allegedly acting on instructions from their superiors, had sought to compel his appearance for interrogation.
The summons, according to Owino, are linked to the Linda Mwananchi rallies held at Amalemba Grounds and Mbale on February 21, 2026. The outspoken MP suggested that the move to have him questioned outside Nairobi was calculated to exert pressure and suppress dissent.
Claims of Political Pressure
While acknowledging what he described as pressure faced by officers from higher authorities, Owino urged investigators to remain guided by constitutional principles.
“I advise that your focus should be on preserving the oath of office you took, which binds you to the rule of law,” he wrote.
He further questioned the choice of Kakamega as the venue for the summons, arguing that any legal proceedings involving him should be conducted in Nairobi unless there is a legally established jurisdiction in Kakamega.
“It is my view that the choice of Kakamega as the venue is meant to intimidate and blackmail me, and reflects a broader attempt to suppress the voice of the people,” Owino stated.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns
The MP also referenced a decision by the Court of Appeal of Kenya in Civil Appeal No. 197 of 2020, which examined contentious provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.
The ruling addressed concerns that aspects of the law could be used to curtail freedom of expression. Owino urged investigators to consider the broader legal implications of the judgment, particularly in relation to civil liberties and political expression.
Direct Message to Investigators
Addressing the Western Regional DCI leadership, Owino emphasized the responsibility carried by public officers, warning against blindly executing directives that may undermine constitutional rights.
“As a man entrusted with the Western region as the Regional County Investigations Officer, I refuse to believe that you are merely a conveyor belt. You hold an office of public trust on behalf of the people of Kenya,” he stated.
The developments highlight growing tensions between political actors and investigative agencies, particularly around the conduct of public rallies and the enforcement of laws governing speech and assembly.
