Three mourners killed by police at Raila Odinga memorial were uninvolved, investigation finds
Investigation determined that three people shot dead by police at Raila Odinga's memorial were not part of the clash that triggered the gunfire.
At a memorial for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga held on 16 October 2025, police fired live rounds after a small group of mourners attempted to breach the VIP pavilion at Kasarani Stadium. Africa Eye examined over 1,500 images and video, locating the three victims—Evans Kiche, Vincent Ogutu and Jidah Burka—well away from the immediate conflict, between 60 m and 160 m, and finding no evidence they participated in throwing objects.
Forensic analysis suggests members of an elite unit tasked with protecting President William Ruto fired the lethal shots. Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen described the response as restrained and blamed stone-throwing, though the footage only shows chairs and other items. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority is still probing the incident, with no arrests made to date.
Why it matters
The findings raise serious questions about police use of force and accountability in Kenya's handling of a high-profile political funeral.
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