Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has publicly denounced the arrest of Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, calling it an arbitrary action that threatens Kenya’s constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 8, 2026, Owino emphasized that while Kaguchia's remarks may be contentious or unpopular, such differences in opinion should not justify detention in a democratic society.
"Disagreement is never a justification for arrest," Owino declared, highlighting that freedom of speech protects all views, including those critical of government or controversial in nature.
He cautioned that the arrest risks establishing a precedent where criminalizing speech could become routine. "Today it is Kaguchia; tomorrow it could be anyone else," Owino warned, pledging to defend the rights of all Kenyans to express themselves without fear of harassment or arbitrary detention.
Background to the Arrest
John Kaguchia was detained on Monday morning after spending the previous night at the Royal Media Services (RMS) headquarters, where he sought refuge amid reports that police were poised to arrest him.
Video footage obtained by People Daily Digital showed Kaguchia being taken into custody at the RMS offices. The arrest followed his public alarm about heavily armed, hooded officers surrounding the media station in an apparent attempt to apprehend him.
Opposition leaders and legal representatives had stayed overnight at the premises, accusing security agencies of intimidation tactics.
Legal Representation Blocked
Kaguchia’s legal team, led by advocates Ndegwa Njiru and Wakili Muriu, reported being denied access to their client after his arrest. Despite presenting themselves at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters shortly after the arrest, they were blocked from meeting him.
Investigation Details
The Mukurweini MP is under investigation for remarks made during a political gathering in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, which authorities have labeled inciteful.
