Family of officer who died after Homa Bay chaos dispute cause of death

The family of Officer Jim Richardson Onkundi, who passed away during the Linda Mwananchi tour in Homa Bay County, is seeking answers about the circumstances of his death. On Monday, August 24, 2026, Simon Onkundi, the deceased's brother, told a local TV station that the police had given them conflicting accounts. Simon said the family was first told their relative died in an accident and was rushed to a local hospital, but other officers claimed he died on the scene during the rally.

Samson Ombori, the uncle, disputed the police's description of the injuries. According to him, they told the family Jim had facial injuries, but upon inspecting the body, he said Jim looked fine. Additionally, Ombori questioned how Jim was found disrobed, without identification or his weapon. Sheila Zablon, the widow, emphasized the need for closure, stating she wants the government to investigate the cause of her husband's death.

The Linda Mwananchi tour on Sunday, August 16, 2026, was marked by political tension and attempts to disrupt meetings, including road blockades, burning tyres, and large stones placed on roads.