Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has strongly criticized the arrest of Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia, describing the government’s actions as a threat to constitutional freedoms and democratic principles.
In a strongly worded statement issued after Kaguchia’s arrest, Babu argued that while many people may disagree with the remarks made by the legislator disagreement alone cannot justify an arrest in a constitutional democracy.
According to the outspoken lawmaker, the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to express their views freely regardless of whether those opinions are popular or controversial.
He warned that criminalizing speech sets a dangerous precedent that could eventually affect every citizen.
“We strongly condemn the arbitrary arrest of Hon. John Kaguchia by the government over his remarks. Some people may disagree with what he said but in a constitutional democracy, disagreement is never a justification for arrest,” Babu said.
The MP emphasized that freedom of expression is designed to protect all forms of speech, including statements that may be unpopular, critical or controversial.
He cautioned that targeting political speech through arrests undermines democratic values and weakens public confidence in the rule of law.
Babu further warned that if authorities are allowed to arrest leaders over their opinions today, ordinary Kenyans could face similar treatment in the future.
“Today it is Kaguchia; tomorrow it could be anyone else,” he stated.
The legislator pledged to defend the constitutional rights of every Kenyan to speak without fear of intimidation, harassment or arbitrary detention.
He maintained that the proper response to speech that some may find offensive is public debate rather than criminal prosecution.
According to Babu, governments committed to democracy should encourage open dialogue instead of suppressing differing opinions through law enforcement agencies.
He concluded by warning that a country which punishes words instead of actual crimes risks eroding the freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
His remarks come amid growing political debate surrounding Kaguchia’s arrest with several opposition leaders and legal experts questioning whether the action was necessary or legally justified.
Supporters of the MP have argued that his comments while controversial, should be addressed through public discourse rather than police intervention.
As reactions continue to emerge from across the political divide, the incident is expected to fuel a broader national conversation about the limits of free expression, the role of law enforcement in political disputes, and the importance of safeguarding constitutional rights in Kenya’s democracy.