Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has attracted widespread attention after telling a Nairobi court that he did not see social media personality Ezekiel Kyama Nzioki, popularly known online as “Mr Speaker Sir”, during the June 25, 2024, Gen Z protests.
Babu appeared in court as part of proceedings involving Nzioki, who was recently arrested following events linked to the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests.
During his testimony, the legislator said he was present during the demonstrations but did not see the accused at the scene.
“I was there. I didn’t see him.”
The statement formed part of the court proceedings as the defence sought to challenge allegations against Nzioki.
The social media personality has gained prominence for his viral catchphrase “Mr Speaker Sir”, which has become widely recognised across Kenyan social media platforms.
Bail ruling draws attention.
Following the court proceedings, Nzioki was granted a cash bail of KSh100,000, a decision that also became a topic of discussion online.
The ruling came after the defence opposed an earlier application seeking significantly stricter bail terms.
he.babuowino // Instagram
Court proceedings in the case have continued to attract public interest, particularly because they coincide with the recent anniversary of the June 25, 2024 Gen Z demonstrations that drew thousands of young Kenyans to the streets.
The protests, which were initially organised in opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, later evolved into broader demonstrations calling for accountability, better governance and police reforms.
Social media reacts
Clips of Babu Owino’s courtroom remarks quickly circulated across social media, prompting thousands of reactions.
Some users responded with humour, particularly after hearing the MP’s testimony.
User @_adellenavish commented:
“Ata suspect mwenyewe anaskia kucheka.”
Another user, @lucky_ke, wrote:
“Lawyers hunibamba sana 😂😂.”
he.babuowino // Leah Mukangai
Others questioned Babu’s statement.
@elnino_nzau commented:
“😂😂 Babu hii uongo ndo tunaenda nayo binguni kweli???”
Meanwhile, @dani_____10______ linked the testimony to the court’s decision on bail, writing:
“And that’s how he was rescued with 100k cash bail instead of 42 million cash bail, Babu kwasababu.”
Case remains before the court.
The case involving Ezekiel Kyama Nzioki remains before the courts, with further proceedings expected as investigations continue.
As public interest grows, the courtroom exchange has become one of the latest moments to capture attention online, highlighting how legal proceedings linked to the Gen Z protests continue to generate widespread discussion across social media.
he.babuowino // Leah Mukangai
While opinions remain divided, Babu Owino’s brief statement, “I was there. I didn’t see him.”has become one of the most widely shared moments from the latest court session, drawing both criticism and humour from Kenyans following the case.
