By Editorial Team
NAIROBI, June 25, 2026 — Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has vowed to mount a strong legal defence for more than 200 protesters detained at Central Police Station following demonstrations marking the anniversary of the Gen Z protests.
Speaking after visiting those in custody, Owino said the young people had committed no crime and were only exercising their constitutional right to protest, mourn fallen comrades, and demand better living conditions.
He argued that the detainees were being punished for speaking out against unemployment, the high cost of living, and what he described as the continued frustration of young Kenyans.
According to Owino, many of those arrested had joined the demonstrations to commemorate victims of the June 2024 protests, yet ended up behind bars despite what he said was a peaceful expression of grief and civic action.
He said the legal team was still waiting to learn the exact charges the police intended to bring against the protesters, but insisted they were ready to face the matter in court.
Owino maintained that the arrests should not intimidate Kenyans from standing up for their rights, adding that the Judiciary would have the final say on the fate of those detained.
He further said the role of police ends once suspects are presented before court, noting that justice must then be determined independently through the legal process.
The legislator expressed confidence that the courts would handle the matter fairly and pledged to assemble a team of advocates to defend the protesters when they appear before a magistrate.
He also assured the detainees that they would not face the legal battle alone, saying his team would stand with them until they secure their freedom.
