In brief
A BBC investigation into the national farewell of former Kenyan prime minister Raila Odinga found that police fired indiscriminately, killing three mourners who were not part of the confrontations that erupted at the stadium. The victims were located far from the standoff, ranging from 60 to 160 metres away. BBC forensic analysis points to an elite presidential protection unit as the likely source of the fatal shots. Kenya’s interior minister claimed the police were under pressure, but the Independent Policing Oversight Authority remains investigating, with no accountability yet imposed. The tragedy has left families grieving and questions about police use of force unanswered.
On 16 October 2025, three mourners were killed when Kenyan police opened fire at a national farewell ceremony for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. BBC Africa Eye’s investigation revealed the victims were not among those engaged in the violent clashes that erupted within the stadium; they were positioned 60 to 160 metres from the confrontation.
Police response was described by Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen as “restrained” after the crowd began throwing objects, though footage shows only plastic chairs were tossed. The BBC analysed over 1,500 images and videos to establish the victims’ locations, finding no evidence of stone throwing in the immediate area where the shots were fired.
Forensic evidence suggests that an elite police unit responsible for presidential protection – likely the same unit tasked with guarding Vice President William Ruto – fired the lives–endangering shots. The footage shows six to eight officers in tactical gear, with no visible insignia, carrying assault rifles.
The victims – Evans Kiche, 42, was shot in the head about 60 metres from the crowd. Vincent Ogutu, 36, and Jidah Burka, 42, were each at least 160 metres away, both also killed by gunshot wounds to the chest or head. Autopsy reports confirm the cause of death for all three.
Family members, such as widow Yvonne Akinyi, express that the tragedy has left their children orphaned and ask why the police fired far from the source of violence. Akinyi said she feels “deeply hurt” by the lack of clear answers.
Kenya’s Independent Policing Oversight Authority is still investigating the shootings, and no official accountability has been reached. The interior minister reiterated that police actions were made “under intense pressure” and that the investigation is ongoing.
The national farewell itself was shifted last minute from parliament to Kasarani Stadium due to large crowds and security concerns, a decision that may have contributed to the chaos and police response.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for police reform and greater oversight of emergency force use in Kenya, amid wider debate over the balance between security and civil rights.
