Sister to Kenyan Teacher Killed in Tanzania Recalls Their Final Phone Conversation
The sister of John Ogutu, a Kenyan teacher who was allegedly killed in Tanzania during the recent post-election violence, has spoken out with deep sorrow, appealing to the Kenyan government to help bring her brother’s body back home for burial.
Speaking on Tuesday, November 4, during an interview with journalists, John’s sister emotionally recalled her final conversation with her late brother, describing him as a loving, humble, and peaceful man who cared deeply for his family.
According to her, John had been living and working as a teacher in Tanzania for nearly eight years, dedicating himself to his profession and building close relationships with his students and colleagues.
His sudden death, reportedly at the hands of individuals believed to be Tanzanian law enforcers, has left his family devastated and demanding answers.
John’s sister shared that their last phone conversation took place on September 22 this year, a day she remembers vividly. That day, John had called her to wish her a happy birthday — a gesture that touched her heart deeply.
“My brother has been in Tanzania for almost eight years. The last time I spoke to him was on September 22, when he called to wish me a happy birthday,” she recounted tearfully.
“He was the only family member who remembered my birthday. I jokingly told him that I’m getting old and heading to the grave, and that he should be ready to take over the family leadership. He just laughed softly, like he always did.”
She described her brother as a calm, humble, and respectful man who avoided conflict and always showed respect to his elders.
“He never spoke much when adults were present. He was soft-spoken and never argued with anyone. Even when we disagreed, he would calmly remind me that I’m older than him and deserved respect,” she said.
According to the family, John was reportedly killed in the Gaba area of Ubungo, Dar es Salaam, during the height of the post-election violence. His body is currently preserved at Mwananyamala Mortuary in Tanzania.
During the emotional interview at their home in Siaya County, John’s sister made a heartfelt plea to President William Ruto’s government, urging it to intervene and facilitate the repatriation of her brother’s remains. The family has also called for justice, demanding a thorough investigation into the killing.
“We just want his body brought back home so that we can give him a decent burial. He was our family’s hope, and his sudden death has broken us,” she said.
Although the exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, reports indicate that Ogutu was one of many people caught in the chaos that followed Tanzania’s general elections.
His killing has been condemned by human rights groups and opposition leaders, who have accused Tanzanian authorities of using excessive force against civilians.
Opposition party CHADEMA has claimed that at least 500 people were killed in the violent clashes that erupted on Wednesday, October 29, as the nation went to the polls.
The United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) also confirmed that more than ten people had been killed and hundreds injured during the unrest.
John’s death has since become a painful symbol of the many innocent lives lost in the wave of political violence that has shaken Tanzania. His grieving family now hopes that justice will be served and that his body will be brought home so they can finally lay him to rest in peace.
“John was not just a teacher — he was a pillar of our family and a source of inspiration for many. We only pray that his death will not be in vain,” his sister concluded.
Join Government Official WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
