Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has criticised the use of force by police during peaceful protests held on July 7 to mark Saba Saba Day, a significant date in Kenya’s democratic history.
In a statement posted Tuesday on his Facebook account, the legislator expressed concern over what he described as unconstitutional policing, claiming that peaceful demonstrators were met with violence, intimidation, and repression by law enforcement.
“The right to assemble and speak out against injustice is fundamental in any free society. When those entrusted to protect the public respond with force, they undermine human rights and erode the foundation of justice and democracy,” Owino said.
He called for accountability and transparency, urging that any officers found to have acted unlawfully during the protests be identified and held responsible.
The MP expressed solidarity with the demonstrators, describing the reported police actions as unjust and urging continued vigilance in defending civil liberties.
He emphasised that remaining silent in the face of injustice amounts to complicity.
Owino’s remarks come as national concern grows over police conduct during the Saba Saba events.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has also called for investigations into the use of force against protesters.
In a press statement issued Monday evening, KNCHR reported widespread disruptions, alleged police misconduct, and the presence of unidentified individuals patrolling in unmarked vehicles across Nairobi, Kajiado, and Nakuru counties.
