Babu Owino Speaks Out After DCI Summons Over Linda Mwananchi Rally Chaos
Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has finally responded after being summoned by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), following recent violent incidents linked to the Linda Mwananchi rallies.
The outspoken legislator, who is also eyeing the Nairobi gubernatorial seat, was directed by detectives to present himself at the DCI’s Western Region offices in Kakamega for questioning.
The summons comes after clashes erupted during the political rallies, leaving several people injured and others dead.
Babu Owino had attended the rallies alongside a group of ODM leaders allied to a breakaway faction. Among those present were Edwin Sifuna, James Orengo, and ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi.
The gatherings, which were part of the Linda Mwananchi movement, have recently drawn attention due to rising political tensions and security concerns.
In a strongly worded letter dated March 17, 2026, and seen by Newshub.co.ke, Babu Owino questioned the intention behind the summons.
The letter, addressed to the DCI Regional Director in Western Kenya, raised concerns about why he was required to travel all the way to Kakamega for interrogation instead of handling the matter in Nairobi.
According to the MP, the move appeared suspicious and politically motivated. He claimed that the decision to summon him outside Nairobi was meant to intimidate him and create unnecessary pressure.
Babu insisted that any legitimate legal process should be conducted fairly and within the proper jurisdiction, emphasizing that Nairobi would be the appropriate location.
The youthful legislator further urged the DCI to remain professional and avoid being dragged into political battles. He warned investigators against being used as tools to settle political scores, stressing the importance of maintaining independence and respecting the rule of law.
“In the past few days, junior officers allegedly working on your instructions have attempted to summon me to Kakamega for interrogation over the successful Linda Mwananchi rallies held at Amalemba Grounds and Mbale,” part of his statement read.
He went further to reference a Court of Appeal ruling, urging the authorities to carefully interpret its legal implications.
Babu highlighted concerns about the use of laws such as the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act of 2018, suggesting that such legislation should not be misused to suppress dissenting voices or target political opponents in a democratic society.
The summons comes at a time when the DCI has been investigating organizers of the Linda Mwananchi rallies.
Authorities have accused some organizers of allowing supporters to carry weapons during the events, which goes against laws governing peaceful assembly.
One of the most serious incidents occurred during a rally in Kakamega in February, where a man identified as George Olande Otobe lost his life.
According to investigators, the deceased, who was a boda boda rider from Kisumu County, reportedly got into a confrontation with another supporter. The situation quickly escalated, and he was overpowered by a crowd, leading to his death.
This tragic incident marked the second fatality linked to the Linda Mwananchi tour. Earlier, another life had been lost in Kitengela following a shooting during a related political gathering.
These incidents have raised concerns among authorities and the public about safety and the growing tension surrounding the rallies.
As investigations continue, the situation highlights the increasing political friction in the country, with leaders and security agencies appearing to clash over responsibility and accountability.
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