DJ Evolve, whose real name is Felix Orinda, testified in court on Thursday as a defence witness in the case against Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, who is accused of misusing a firearm in a shooting incident at a Nairobi club in 2020.
Speaking virtually from his bed, DJ Evolve stated that he did not see the legislator with a gun on the said day and expressed uncertainty about what exactly transpired, as he only found himself in an ambulance after being shot.
While DJ Evolve acknowledged being injured by a bullet on the fateful day, he claimed ignorance regarding the source of the gunshot. He emphasized that Babu Owino is his friend and has been providing support in paying his hospital bills and other expenses.
When questioned by the defence lawyer, DJ Evolve denied witnessing the MP in possession of a firearm, stating that they were simply engaged in conversations before the incident occurred.
Recounting his experience, DJ Evolve mentioned that he received medical care and his well-being was taken care of, with his utilities being covered. He volunteered to give his testimony and expressed gratitude for the support he had received from Babu Owino as a friend.
During the proceedings, Edwin Otieno, Babu Owino’s private protection officer and personal assistant, also testified. He informed the court that prior to the shooting incident, Owino had informed him about an issue with his firearm, mentioning that it had jammed at the shooting range.
In a previous court appearance, Babu Owino disclosed that he had spent approximately Ksh.58.6 million on DJ Evolve’s medical treatment and other expenses. This included the purchase of a Ksh.17 million apartment in Kilimani, medical bills amounting to Ksh.23 million, a monthly upkeep of Ksh.70,000, and additional expenditures.
The court proceedings shed new light on the testimonies of DJ Evolve and Edwin Otieno, adding complexity to the case. The defence’s strategy appears to revolve around establishing doubt regarding Babu Owino’s involvement in the shooting incident and emphasizing the support he has provided to DJ Evolve during his recovery. The trial will continue as further evidence is presented and examined by both the defence and prosecution.
