The family of a Kenyan teacher, John Ogutu, who was reportedly killed during the post-election violence in Tanzania, is appealing to the Kenyan government to help repatriate his body for burial.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, November 4, Ogutu’s elder sister shared emotional memories of her late brother, describing him as a calm, humble, and loving man who had dedicated nearly eight years of his life teaching in Tanzania.
“The last time I spoke to him was on September 22, when he called to wish me a happy birthday,” she recounted tearfully. “He was the only one who remembered my birthday. I told him that I was getting old and that he should take over leadership of the family, and he just laughed.”
Ogutu’s sister revealed that his body is currently lying at Mwananyamala Mortuary in Dar es Salaam, after he was allegedly killed in the Gaba area of Ubungo by people believed to be law enforcement officers.
Describing him as a peace-loving individual, she noted that Ogutu rarely engaged in conflict and always respected his elders. “Even when there were disagreements, he would remind me that I am older and should take the lead,” she said.
The grieving family, speaking from their home in Siaya County, urged President William Ruto’s administration and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist in bringing Ogutu’s remains back to Kenya and to pursue justice for his killing.
While details surrounding his death remain unclear, Ogutu’s case adds to growing concerns over the wave of violence following Tanzania’s general elections.
According to the UN Human Rights Commission, over ten people have been confirmed dead, while opposition party CHADEMA claims as many as 500 people were killed during the unrest that began on October 29.
Ogutu’s family now hopes that their government will intervene and help them give their loved one a dignified farewell.
