Police are investigating a physical confrontation between Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai that occurred at a restaurant in Nairobi’s Kilimani area, after CCTV footage surfaced showing how the incident unfolded and raised questions about responsibility.
The incident happened on January 3, 2025, in the afternoon at a busy restaurant. CCTV footage shows Babu Owino standing up from his table at around 4:01 pm and walking toward another table where Robert Alai was seated with about six other people. At first, the situation appears calm. Owino greets several people at the table by shaking hands. When he reaches Alai, however, there is no handshake. The two exchange a few words, and the mood quickly changes. What starts as a short conversation turns into a heated argument within seconds.
The video then captures pushing between the two leaders. Chairs are knocked over as the confrontation grows more intense. Other diners in the restaurant react with fear, moving away from the area to avoid being caught in the fight. Staff and customers appear shocked as the situation escalates in a public place where families and other guests were present.
One of the most disturbing moments in the footage is when Robert Alai is seen touching his waist. Witnesses say this is the moment he pulled out a gun, causing panic in the restaurant. A police officer who was present quickly intervenes and disarms him. The firearm is later taken to Kilimani Police Station, where it is being held as evidence. The confrontation continues briefly in another section of the restaurant, where Alai is seen throwing an object in Owino’s direction.
Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai. Photo Courtesy: Nairobi Leo.
A woman attempts to separate them but is hit in the process, forcing another person to step in to help her. After a short while, the two men return to their seats, though the tension remains high. Owino later leaves the restaurant calmly.
Both politicians have given different accounts of what happened. Robert Alai says he was seated quietly when Owino approached and tried to discuss politics. He claims he told Owino he was not interested in any political positions, but the conversation became forceful. According to Alai, Owino pushed him first, which led to the physical confrontation. He admits he had a gun on his waist but insists he did not intentionally draw it. He says the public should judge based on what the video clearly shows.
Babu Owino, on the other hand, says the incident was a serious threat to his life. He believes it was part of a wider attempt to intimidate him politically. He has pointed to past experiences where he felt targeted and has called for a full and fair investigation, asking the authorities to act according to the law.
The CCTV footage has divided public opinion. Some people believe Alai started the physical violence, while others argue that Owino triggered the incident by leaving his table and approaching Alai. A statement widely shared online claims the video shows Owino starting the conflict, contradicting his version of events.
Police have confirmed that both men have recorded statements. Kilimani Sub-County Police Commander Patricia Yegon says investigators are interviewing witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage carefully. She has assured the public that the law will apply equally, regardless of political status. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations is also involved.
