Embakasi East MP Babu Owino paid a visit to two brave police officers who were injured while on duty during the protests against the Finance Bill, 2024. These officers, Chief Inspector David Maina and Corporal Moraa, were part of the dedicated team deployed to handle the demonstrators. It was a show of solidarity and support from the MP to visit them at Nairobi West Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Chief Inspector Maina sustained severe injuries, but the medical staff at Nairobi West Hospital are working tirelessly to ensure his recovery. Their dedication and expertise are truly commendable, and it gives hope for a full and speedy recovery for Chief Inspector Maina. Babu Owino expressed his disappointment that such injuries occurred during what should have been a peaceful exercise of democratic rights. It is disheartening to see individuals harmed while expressing their opinions and fighting for what they believe in.
During his visit, the MP also took the opportunity to call on the police force not to be instruments of oppression against Kenyan citizens. He emphasized that the youth, who are fighting for their rights, are also advocating for the welfare and well-being of the police force. It is crucial to remember that the demands for justice and equality are not against the police, but rather against any form of injustice and abuse of power.
The teargas canister explosion that caused these injuries was a result of a mishap when a senior officer mishandled it. This unfortunate incident led to severe injuries for Chief Inspector Maina and chest injuries for another officer. The protests, unfortunately, escalated into clashes between the police and demonstrators, disrupting business activities in the city center. It is regrettable that the peaceful demonstrations took such a turn, causing harm and disruption to both sides involved.
Babu Owino’s visit to the injured police officers at Nairobi West Hospital was a gesture of support and solidarity. It highlighted the importance of peaceful protests and the need for the police force to protect the rights of citizens rather than becoming instruments of oppression. The incident with the teargas canister serves as a reminder of the risks involved in handling such equipment and the need for proper training and protocols. It is hoped that both the injured officers and the demonstrators will recover fully, and that peaceful dialogue and understanding can prevail in the future.