‘We shall not be intimidated into silence!’ MP Babu Owino says after DCI withdraws summons

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has now withdrawn summons earlier issued to Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino requiring him to appear and assist in a probe.

The summons issued by DCI Chief Inspector Eunice Njue, dated July 22, required Mr. Owino to present himself before the investigative agency’s headquarters on July 24, to provide information in an ongoing probe into incitement and money laundering offences.

In a sharp about-turn, however, the DCI has now said it is not necessary for the vocal legislator to appear before its officers anymore.

The lawmaker took to social media platforms to reveal a text message allegedly sent to him by Inspector Njue on Tuesday evening that read: “Refer to my earlier notification. Hon. Dr. Babu Owino you are no longer required to avail yourself. Thank you.”

Mr. Owino has since downplayed the summons and their subsequent withdrawal intimating that it was merely a ploy to intimidate him.

“The DCI has unceremoniously withdrawn their summon. I was to be accompanied by my advocates, MPs, and the people of Kenya, but it appears news of our visit in our thousands prompted them to recall their invitation,” he said.

“I reiterate that we shall not be intimidated into silence. No matter the price, we are ready to pay it!”