Police Watchdog Investigates Fatal Shooting at Kitengela Political Rally

2026-02-16 region

Kitengela, 16 February 2026
Vincent Ayomo, a 28-year-old garage worker, was fatally shot in the face during Senator Edwin Sifuna’s political rally in Kitengela on Sunday. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has deployed investigators to examine whether police used excessive force whilst dispersing crowds at the opposition gathering. Opposition leaders demand accountability from President Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Murkomen for what they describe as state-sponsored violence against peaceful citizens exercising constitutional rights.

IPOA Launches High-Priority Investigation

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority confirmed on Monday, 16 February 2026, that it has deployed a rapid-response team comprising monitoring and investigation officers to Kitengela to conduct an independent inquiry into the fatal shooting [1][2][3]. IPOA Vice Chairperson Ann Mwangi stated that ‘the Authority noted with great concern the loss of life and injuries during the Kitengela political rally, allegedly occurring as members of the National Police Service endeavoured to maintain law and order’ [3][5]. The investigation aims to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, determine the extent of police involvement, assess whether the use of force was justified, and evaluate whether it was proportionate as defined by law [1][2][5].

Opposition Leaders Demand Accountability

The Orange Democratic Movement faction led by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna has issued a strongly-worded condemnation of what they term ‘state-sponsored acts of violence’ following Vincent Ayomo’s death at approximately 18:00 on Sunday [1]. The statement, supported by prominent opposition figures including Siaya Governor James Orengo, ODM Deputy Party Leader Godfrey Osotsi, and Senators Richard Onyonka and Okong’o Omugeni, declared: ‘The Police and state hired goons have, by their violent attacks, killed an innocent Kenyan, namely Vincent Ayomo, a young man working at a garage in Kitengela, gravely injured many others and vandalised the public address system set up for the Kitengela meeting’ [1]. Sifuna’s group has specifically called for President William Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to be held accountable for the killing and vowed to pursue justice on behalf of the deceased’s family [1][5][6].

Family Confirms Fatal Shooting Details

Ayomo’s family confirmed the fatal shooting occurred when he was shot in the face, specifically in the left eye, whilst the 28-year-old garage worker was caught in the violent clashes between security forces and rally attendees [1]. The victim’s relatives spoke at the Nairobi Funeral Home, providing testimony that supports the opposition’s claims of excessive force during what was intended as a peaceful assembly [1]. Several members of parliament, including Babu Owino, Caleb Amisi, Caroli Omondi, Anthony Kibagendi, and Julius Mawathe, have also criticised the violence that led to Ayomo’s death and injuries to other attendees [1].

Authority Commits to Transparency and Accountability

IPOA has committed to conducting a diligent probe and making its findings public, along with issuing recommendations to relevant agencies to address identified issues where culpability is established [2][3][5]. The Authority extended its condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and wished for quick recovery of the injured persons [2]. In its official statement, IPOA emphasised that it ‘remains committed to its mandate of holding the National Police Service accountable and ensuring police operations are conducted transparently, professionally, and in full compliance with the law’ [3][5]. The investigation represents a critical test of police accountability mechanisms in Kenya, particularly regarding the use of force during political gatherings where constitutional rights to peaceful assembly are at stake.

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political violence police oversight