A postmortem report has revealed that Vincent Ayomo, a 28-year-old mechanic, died from a gunshot wound to the eye during an opposition rally in Kitengela on February 15, 2026. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has condemned police for using teargas and live ammunition, while Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen blamed goons ferried from Machakos. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched a rapid investigation into the incident.
Vincent Ayomo, a 28-year-old mechanic and father, died during a rally led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders in Kitengela, Kajiado County, on February 15, 2026. The postmortem conducted by government pathologists on Thursday revealed that a bullet entered through his left eye, fractured his spinal cord, damaged his brain, and exited the back of his head, causing instant death.
Ayomo was shot while returning from work to fetch spare parts, according to his family and witnesses. Heavy rain was falling as police dispersed the crowd with teargas, leaving his body exposed on the ground. Sifuna stated on February 16 that Ayomo was fatally shot by police officers deployed to use teargas and live ammunition. "We will pursue justice for Ayomo's family," Sifuna said, accusing President Ruto's administration of "state violence." The rally drew opposition figures including Babu Owino, Caleb Amisi, James Orengo, Richard Onyonka, and Godfrey Osotsi.
On the other hand, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said on February 18 in Naivasha that police were not formally notified of the rally and that goons ferried from Machakos caused the chaos. "The recent rally in Kitengela was very unfortunate in that the report was not given to the police officers so that they could provide security," Murkomen stated. Sifuna responded on February 19 in parliament, claiming he notified Murkomen via WhatsApp and the Senate WhatsApp group about an upcoming Kakamega rally, dismissing claims of ignorance.
The Public Order Act requires written notification to the local police station at least three days but no more than 14 days in advance. IPOA, under Vice Chairperson Ann Mwangi, has deployed a rapid response team to Kajiado, expressing concern over the loss of life and injuries. The incident is part of escalating tensions between the opposition and government over political rally security.
The opposition claims two people were killed, though reports confirm only Ayomo's death. Investigations continue.
