NAIROBI, Kenya — Embakasi East Member of Parliament (MP), Babu Owino, has publicly claimed that his life is in imminent danger, alleging that unidentified individuals are planning his assassination before or during the State Funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) social media page, the vocal legislator disclosed that he has received credible intelligence detailing a plot to eliminate him around the time of the funeral ceremony.
Owino expressed hope that “Baba” would receive the fitting send-off he deserved, “devoid of unwarranted violence.”
Security withdrawal and political retaliation claim
Central to his concerns is the alleged sudden withdrawal of his government-assigned security detail under circumstances he terms unclear.
The MP claimed the withdrawal occurred shortly after he publicly expressed solidarity with ordinary citizens and questioned recent government actions.
“Withdrawal of my security by the government… Yesterday I stood with the people,” the legislator posted, suggesting his political stance triggered the move. He went on to describe the revocation of protection as “in retaliation” and labeled it “an attack on democracy.”
This is not the first instance the ODM-allied MP has voiced concerns about threats to his safety. In previous public statements, Owino alleged that he was being closely tracked, noting: “My life is in danger,” and claiming “a saloon car with four occupants” had been following him.
Public and official response
Owino’s claims have fueled significant discussion online, with supporters voicing concern.
One user, @Josh, tweeted: “Babu Owino should be protected at all cost! Whatever you guys are joking with is not something you’re prepared to deal with! Get warned!.”
Another user, @KOT OCS, commented on the internal dynamics of the opposition: “Mbona some people in ODM wanapangia Babu Owino? Why? Because he’s popular? Because many people like him? Hatufai kukubali hio upuzi wanataka kufanyia Babu Owino, Babu should be respected.”
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While the MP has yet to provide public evidence supporting the alleged assassination plot, his claims surface amid a period of heightened national political activity following the death of his close political ally, Raila Odinga, whose final send-off is anticipated to draw massive crowds.
Official security agencies have not released a statement concerning Owino’s specific claims. However, the MP’s renewed security concerns underscore the sensitive atmosphere surrounding key opposition figures as Kenya concludes a period of national mourning.
Owino concluded his recent posts by reaffirming his commitment to activism: “Standing with the people should never make one a target,” adding that he remains dedicated to “speaking truth to power.”