Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has broken his silence following a tense and alarming confrontation with Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai at a popular Kilimani restaurant on Saturday, January 3, 2026.
The incident, which unfolded in full view of diners, has reignited debates over political tensions and the presence of firearms in public spaces.
According to Owino, the altercation began after he approached Alai’s table to greet him. Eyewitnesses say Alai accused Owino of orchestrating a series of online attacks against his wife, a claim the MP vehemently denied.
“Yesterday afternoon, a friend of mine who is a senior clergyman invited me for a meeting at a popular restaurant along Lenana Road in the Kilimani area. Having released my security detail for the Christmas holidays, I drove myself to the venue and arrived at approximately 3:40 p.m. We held our discussions for about twenty minutes, after which I stood up to leave. 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,” Babu Owino narrated.
“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 in any way, and that I have no reason whatsoever to involve innocent family members in politics. It is not my style to advance my politics by attacking women. I hold out respected ladies in the highest regard. I further pointed out that I do not even engage him personally, and therefore could not have engaged his wife.”
The situation escalated rapidly, with Alai allegedly drawing a pistol and striking Owino on the chest and jaw before pouring water on him.
Diners reportedly panicked as the confrontation unfolded, prompting the MP to leave the venue and report the matter to Kilimani Police Station.
“At that point, Hon. Alai became aggressive, pushed me, drew a pistol, and struck me on the chest and jaw with it, all in full view of patrons at the establishment. I stood my ground and urged him to calm down, asking him to explain what wrong I had committed to warrant such a violent reaction. He appeared to cool down, and we briefly sat, with another person positioning himself between us,” the MP stated.
“Moments later, he again turned hostile, picked a glass of water from the table, and poured it on my face. By then, a crowd had gathered, disturbed by his conduct. Upon witnessing this escalation of affairs, and wishing to avoid any physical confrontation, I then immediately left the premises and proceeded to Kilimani Police Station, where I reported the matter.”
Owino described the episode as part of a “sustained campaign of physical harassment and threats” against him, which he claims began after the funeral of former ODM leader Raila Odinga.
“As leaders, we are expected to set an example for society. Our calm should never be mistaken for fear,” he said.
While no injuries were reported, the dramatic encounter has sparked public concern over security and political violence in Nairobi’s public spaces.
The incident has already reignited conversations about accountability, gun control, and the culture of political intimidation in Kenya.
