Embakasi East MP Babu Owino on Tuesday evening visited two police officers who sustained serious injuries after a teargas canister exploded on them, during the peaceful demonstrations against the Finance Bill, 2024.
The officers, Chief Inspector David Maina and another identified as Corporal Moraa were among the officers deployed to contain the protesters.
Babu paid them a visit at the Nairobi West Hospital, where they are currently recuperating.
"While CI Maina suffered terrible injuries, we are happy with the good work that the doctors and nurses of the Nairobi West Hospital are doing to ensure he recovers," he said.
The Embakasi East MP further said that it was unfortunate that anyone should suffer injuries when Kenyans are exercising their democratic rights.
He urged police officers not to allow themselves to be used to suppress the freedom of Kenyans.
"It is unfortunate that anyone should suffer injuries in the exercise of citizens’ democratic rights.
"To our police brothers and sisters, these young people are fighting for you as well; do not accept to be used to stifle freedom in our beloved Kenya. This country belongs to all of us and we have no other so we must get it right."
The teargas canister explosion accidentally happened after the senior police officer failed to release a detonated canister, costing him two hands.
The female officer sustained serious chest injuries.
Police explained the canister in question is different from the one that police have been using in past protests.
“This model has a pin which if released one has to lob the canister. That is why it hurt the team,” said an officer.
During the protests several other police officers and protesters sustained injuries.
Some were hit by flying canisters that were lobbed by anti-riot officers.
The protests paralysed businesses in the city centre as police engaged different groups in running battles.
