Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has pledged to support the families of victims who were shot and killed during the public viewing of Raila Odinga at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on October 16, 2025.
Speaking to the press in Nairobi on Tuesday, Sonko said he would personally cater for all expenses, including hospital and funeral bills, as well as transportation of the bodies to the victims’ homes. He emphasized that his support was an act of compassion, not political maneuvering.
“I think these families need justice, and whatever happened there was unacceptable, especially for the person who gave orders for innocent mourners to be shot at,” Sonko stated. “IPOA should move with speed on the matter, as we have not heard their action on the same.”
The former governor criticized both the government and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for their silence on the tragedy, calling for swift investigations and accountability for those responsible.
Sonko also expressed frustration with senior politicians who, despite attending Raila’s memorial services, had remained silent on the Kasarani shooting. He urged leaders to show solidarity with the bereaved families rather than seeking political mileage.
He further issued an ultimatum to the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), stating that if it fails to take up the matter, he will hire lawyers to represent the affected families.
“If LSK does not take action, I will hire lawyers on behalf of the families so that they can get justice. This is not just for PR. There is no one here standing with these families,” Sonko affirmed.
An autopsy report released on Tuesday confirmed that the three victims succumbed to gunshot wounds. Sonko’s intervention has been widely viewed as a call for justice and empathy amid national mourning for the late former Prime Minister.
