By Mulembe Times | October 18, 2025
Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has claimed that his life is in danger, alleging a plot by unknown individuals to assassinate him before or during the burial of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga.
In a statement shared on his official X (Twitter) account on Friday, the outspoken legislator said he had received credible intelligence warning of plans to eliminate him. He urged Kenyans to remain peaceful during Raila’s final send-off, which is expected to draw massive crowds in Kisumu and Siaya Counties this weekend.
“I have received credible intelligence that there are plans to eliminate me before or during Baba’s burial,” Babu wrote. “It is my prayer that Baba receives the befitting send-off he deserves, devoid of unwarranted violence.”
Owino further revealed that his government-assigned security had been withdrawn under unclear circumstances, shortly after he made public statements supporting ordinary Kenyans and criticizing recent government decisions.
“Withdrawal of my security by the government… Yesterday I stood with the people,” he posted, describing the move as “retaliation” and “an attack on democracy.”
Previous Threats and Public Concerns
This is not the first time the ODM-allied MP has raised alarms about threats to his life. In past incidents reported by KDRTV and The Star, Babu claimed that a vehicle with four occupants had been trailing him, and that he had received information about plans to harm him.
“My life is in danger,” he said in an earlier Facebook post, alleging that unknown persons were monitoring his movements.
His latest remarks have sparked an outpouring of concern on social media, with Kenyans on X (formerly Twitter) expressing solidarity and calling for his protection.
User @Josh tweeted:
“Babu Owino should be protected at all costs! Whatever you guys are joking with is not something you’re prepared to deal with! Get warned!”
Another user, @KOT_OCS, questioned alleged internal tensions within ODM, saying:
“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.”
Security Response and Political Tensions
Security agencies have not yet issued an official statement regarding the MP’s claims. However, police sources have previously stated that security around major national events, including Raila Odinga’s burial, will be “comprehensive and multi-agency.”
Owino’s allegations come amid a tense political atmosphere following Raila’s death, which has reignited emotional debate among opposition supporters and deepened uncertainty about the country’s political direction.
The MP has long positioned himself as one of Raila’s most loyal defenders, often speaking out against corruption, police brutality, and what he describes as “state intimidation of reformist leaders.”
In a follow-up post, Babu insisted he would not be silenced by threats.
“Standing with the people should never make one a target,” he wrote. “I will continue speaking truth to power, no matter the cost.”
As preparations for Raila Odinga’s burial intensify, Babu Owino’s claims have added a new layer of anxiety to an already emotionally charged moment in Kenya’s political landscape.
