Korogocho MCA Absalom Odhiambo./FILE
Korogocho MCA Absalom Odhiambo has come out to strongly deny claims linking him to the recent unrest witnessed in Nairobi CBD during the anti-DIG Eliud Lagat protests on Tuesday, June 17.
In a video shared on his social media platforms, Odhiambo distanced himself from allegations that he was behind the organisation of the protest, which began peacefully but quickly descended into chaos.
“I had no involvement in the protest,” said Odhiambo.
“And if a protest has to happen, it must be done in a very peaceful way. Let the relevant authorities carry out their investigations.”
The ward rep was responding to mounting speculation and accusations that he played a role in mobilising the protest, which spiraled out of control after unidentified individuals—believed to be hired goons—attacked demonstrators, triggering violent scenes and panic in the city centre.
The protest was part of a public outcry demanding accountability from the government, particularly following recent incidents where police officers were accused of using excessive force during public demonstrations.
Odhiambo said he welcomes a thorough investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to determine who was behind the disruptions.
He emphasized that law enforcement agencies have the tools and mandate to trace the true perpetrators.
“I trust the DCI to do their job. They have the resources to find out who hired the goons that disrupted the protest,” he said.
The MCA also warned that he will be taking legal action against individuals spreading false information about him. He said his name and reputation have been unfairly dragged into the controversy.
“I will go to court and sue those tarnishing my name,” he added.
The protests and the violence that followed have sparked widespread concern over the state of civil liberties, freedom of assembly, and the responsibility of public leaders.
Odhiambo’s comments come amid growing calls for restraint, transparency, and lawful conduct from both protesters and authorities.
The DCI is yet to release an official statement on the progress of investigations, but all eyes remain on the outcome as Nairobi residents demand answers—and accountability—over the events that disrupted the city’s peace.