MP Babu Owino Slams President Ruto Over Youth Protests

Babu Owino

‘Gen Zs Will Send You Into Political Oblivion,’ MP Babu Owino Tells President Ruto

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino criticized President William Ruto for not taking responsibility for the deaths of Kenyan youths during recent anti-government protests.

Babu Owino’s Criticism

Speaking at the burial of protester Rex Kanyeki Masai in Machakos County, Owino condemned Ruto’s leadership and called for his resignation. Rex Kanyeki Masai was one of the casualties in the recent wave of protests.

Owino lambasted Ruto for not attending Rex’s funeral and for prioritizing engagements on X Spaces over addressing public grievances.

He asserted that Ruto’s current decisions and lack of accountability will lead to his political downfall, especially among the youth.

Direct Address to President Ruto

“If Ruto were a true leader, he would be here today to comfort Rex’s family and pay respects. He should take responsibility for every life lost in this struggle,” Owino emphasized.

He criticized Ruto for focusing on selfish political ambitions on X Space rather than engaging directly with the people affected.

“We, the Gen Zs, millennials, and Kenyan youth, will ensure your political oblivion. We want a president, not a mere resident,” Owino declared.

Accusations Against Ruto’s Administration

Owino accused Ruto’s administration of exacerbating the high cost of living through increased taxes and corruption scandals like the fake fertiliser saga.

“He is not a leader but a dealer, dealing with our lives and undermining our future. His vision is to harm the youth and damage the country,” Owino alleged.

Political Figures’ Reactions

Leaders from the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition present at the burial accused Ruto of supporting injustice and violating constitutional rights by endorsing police actions during the protests.

DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa criticized Ruto for using excessive force against demonstrators, highlighting the misuse of power.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka condemned the killing of a protester wrapped in the Kenyan flag, calling it a violation of national values.

Death of Rex Kanyeki Masai

Rex, aged 29, became the first casualty in the Gen Z-led demonstrations when he was fatally shot by a plainclothes police officer on June 18, 2024, during protests against the anti-Finance Bill.

CCTV footage showed multiple live bullets fired by the officer, believed to have caused Rex’s death.

Demand for Justice

Rex’s family is demanding justice for his death during what they insist was a peaceful protest.