Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino visited the family of Vincent Ayomo, who was shot dead during a political rally in Kitengela, on Monday, February 23.
Speaking to the bereaved family, Sifuna expressed his condolences while directly blaming the government for the incident, stressing that the organizers of the rally bore no responsibility for the shooting.
He clarified that Ayomo was struck by a police bullet after the rally had concluded, and not while the meeting was ongoing, noting that the purpose of such gatherings is to engage citizens peacefully.
Political Leaders Visit Family of Vincent Ayomo Following Rally Shooting. Photo: Courtesy.
Sifuna added that their meetings are meant to foster dialogue with the public, and reiterated that no one should lose their life as a result of participating in or attending these events.
The senator also reassured the family of his continued support and vowed to advocate for a thorough investigation, noting that the bullet could be traced to the responsible officer.
He added that while immediate assistance could help ease their burden, efforts would continue even after the burial to ensure justice is served.
Sifuna emphasized that all government-issued bullets carry serial numbers, making it possible to identify the police officer involved, and insisted that the government must be held accountable for Vincent’s death.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has however launched an investigation into Vincent Ayomo’s death.
In a statement on Monday, February 16, IPOA confirmed it monitored police conduct during political rallies in Mombasa and Kajiado on February 15 to ensure compliance with the Constitution.
The authority expressed concern over the reported death and injuries, noting the incident occurred as police tried to maintain public order.
Following the incident, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority launched an independent inquiry.
A rapid-response team was dispatched to Kitengela to collect evidence, interview witnesses, and determine the sequence of events leading to Vincent Ayomo’s death.
The investigation will examine police involvement, assessing whether the force used was necessary and proportionate under Kenyan law.
IPOA pledged to release the findings publicly and issue recommendations to relevant government agencies if any wrongdoing is identified.
