Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has won his first case as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya after securing the release of two Gen Z protesters who were unlawfully detained by police.
The two had been arrested by what Babu described as “rogue police officers” who failed to present them before a court within the 24-hour period required by law.
While appearing at Milimani Law Courts, the MP argued for their freedom, leading the magistrate to release the duo on personal bond.
“Today at Milimani Court, we secured the release of two Gen Zs who were arrested by rogue police officers who failed to present them to court within 24 hours,” Babu said. “The magistrate gave a Solomonic ruling for the Gen Zs to be released on personal bond (free bond).”
This marks a significant milestone for the outspoken legislator, who was officially admitted to the bar as an advocate on May 23, 2025. Speaking about the achievement, Babu described it as a life-changing moment in his public service journey.
Reflecting on his humble beginnings in Nyalenda, Kisumu, the MP said his motivation to pursue law was shaped by the struggles he witnessed growing up. He recalled how his mother, who sold chang’aa to support the family, was frequently arrested and harassed by police.
“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,” he said. “My mother got arrested several times 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 his admission to the legal profession is not for personal gain but a continuation of his commitment to defending the rights of ordinary Kenyans.
He pledged to use his new status to advance social justice, fight inequality, and challenge unfair policies.
“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,” he said.
The MP warned the government to prepare for stronger opposition in both Parliament and the courts. He vowed to take legal action to push for better living standards and hold systems accountable.
“The Government should brace itself for more lethal arguments in defense 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,” he added.
Babu Owino holds a First Class Honours degree in Actuarial Science from the University of Nairobi. He later completed a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree with Second Class Upper Division and has since earned multiple postgraduate qualifications, including a Master’s degree in Architectural Science and a Master of Laws (LLM). He also holds six diplomas in various fields and an honorary Doctorate in Political Leadership from Weldios University in the Benin Republic.
