Robert Alai Clarifies Gun Incident With Babu Owino

Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai during a past event

Kileleshwa Ward MCA Robert Alai has issued a response to allegations by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino that he was attacked with a gun during a confrontation at a restaurant in Kilimani.

Speaking on Monday, January 05th, Alai acknowledged that he was carrying a firearm at the time of the incident but denied drawing or using it against Owino.

“There was a gun on my waist, but I did not draw it on him. The person sitting next to me saw the gun on my waist—because I was wearing only a shirt and not a jacket—and took it,” Alai said.

“If you go to that restaurant, there is video footage. I find it simply absurd.”

Owino, in a press statement released on Sunday, January 04th, accused Alai of physically assaulting him and brandishing a firearm during an encounter at a restaurant along Lenana Road at around 3:40 p.m. on Saturday, January 03rd.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. (Photo: X/Babu Owino)

According to Owino, the incident began when he approached a table where Alai was seated to exchange greetings. He claimed Alai accused him of orchestrating online attacks against the MCA’s wife—an allegation Owino denied—before the confrontation escalated.

Owino alleged that Alai pushed him, drew a pistol, and struck him on the chest and jaw with the firearm in the presence of other patrons. He further claimed that Alai later poured water on his face, prompting him to leave the premises and report the matter at Kilimani Police Station.

Alai’s response marks the first public rebuttal of the allegations. He maintained that the claims were exaggerated and insisted that surveillance footage from the restaurant would provide clarity on what transpired.

The incident has unfolded against the backdrop of heightened political tension and online controversy involving blogger Maverick Aoko. Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has publicly distanced himself from Aoko’s commentary, stating that he does not direct or condone attacks on family members and that political disputes should not involve private individuals.

As of Monday, January 05th, police had not released an official statement confirming whether CCTV footage had been reviewed or whether any charges would be preferred.