Families of the three mourners who were shot dead at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on Thursday are demanding justice, condemning what they describe as excessive use of force by police during the public viewing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s body.
Among the victims were Vincent Otieno Ogutu and Evans Kiche, both of whom died from gunshot wounds in separate incidents during the scuffle. Their loved ones insist their passion for the late Raila Odinga should never have cost them their lives.
Vincent’s wife, Yvonne Akinyi, is struggling to come to terms with the loss of her husband. “It was very painful because I know he was innocent,” she said. Vincent’s brother-in-law, Paul Nyando, claimed the shooting appeared deliberate, noting that the bullet struck Vincent on the left side of the chest.
For Evans Kiche, a 40-year-old chef and father of three, tragedy struck just moments after he stepped out of his workplace near the stadium. His wife, Brenda Akoth, recalls their last phone call vividly. “He told me he was just about to leave. That was the last time I heard his voice,” she said tearfully. Hours later, she received the devastating news that her husband’s body was at City Mortuary.
Relatives described Kiche’s body as severely injured, further fueling anger and frustration. “We are mourning and deeply disappointed with the government,” said his cousin, Juma Sande.
Hussein Khalid, CEO of Vocal Africa, confirmed three deaths and urged police to refrain from using live ammunition during public gatherings. “Evans and Vincent were innocent Kenyans who had only gone to pay their last respects,” he said.
As families continue to grieve, their call is clear: justice, accountability, and an end to police brutality.
