Embakasi East MP, Paul Ongili, popularly known as Babu Owino, has opened up on what pushed him to study law despite having other degrees.
In a message after officially becoming an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, Babu said it was because of the inequality and harassment he experienced growing up in the slums.
He said many slum dwellers knew nothing about their rights, as he described instances where his mother was a victim not once, but many times.
“Growing up in the slums of Nyalenda, I noticed with deep concern the constant harassment and humiliation of ordinary Kenyans in the brutal hands of law enforcement agencies, most of the time without a clue of what their constitutional rights were.
“My mother got arrested severally and instead of being arraigned in court would be beaten up by police to pay a bribe from her meagre chang’aa sales proceeds,” Babu said on Friday.
The legislator said this is what pushed him to study Law to understand its role in safeguarding justice.
“This has pushed me over the years to study and appreciate the laws of Kenya and their role in safeguarding justice, both procedural and substantive.”
He said his admission to the Bar is about sharpening tools that will allow him to fight for justice and equity for the people harder.
Babu insisted that the qualification is not in any way for his personal gain or glory.
“This achievement is not about personal grandiosity. It is about sharpening the tools of service. The law is now a new battlefield where I will fight even harder for justice, equity, and the rights of the common mwananchi.
“The Government should brace itself for more lethal arguments in defence of Kenyans—both in Parliament and now in court. Expect legal action aimed at lowering the cost of living, creating jobs, and holding systems accountable. The revolution continues—now with a gown and a gavel. So, help me, God.”
He was admitted to the Roll of Advocates on Friday, May 23, in a ceremony held at the Supreme Court of Kenya.
