A family in Malindi, Kilifi County, is still struggling to come to terms with the brutal death of their loved one.

Michael Ngumbao Jola was allegedly shot dead in 2019 during the Ganda by-election, leaving his family with unprecedented emotional pain.

Since then, the grieving family has been crying out for justice but has received none.

Jola’s heartbroken mother, Kaka Mumba, is struggling to accept the news that the case is now closed.

The High Court in Mombasa County acquitted the main suspect, Geoffrey Okuto, who was accused of killing Jola, just a week ago.

"I am in pain because of my son. I really relied on him. Whatever I needed, he always brought to me. He always gave and provided for me whatever I required," she cried.

The judgment, delivered by Justice Wendy Mucheni on May 15, found Okuto not guilty of firing the fatal bullet that ended Ngumbao’s life.

In her ruling, she cited three elements of proving murder: the death of the deceased, the unlawful act committed by the accused, and the intention to kill.

She stated that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence to secure a conviction, despite 12 witnesses testifying in the case.

The family claimed that none of them were invited or even called to the police station to record statements, despite the deceased’s younger brother witnessing the incident.

"The judge told us there was nothing that could be done because she is the ruling authority. We have no more power," said Moses Iha, heartbreakingly.

Jola was a supporter of a political opponent of former cabinet secretary Aisha Jumwa.

"Since the death of my son, I have not seen or heard of any progress concerning his case. I am in great pain," Jola’s mother added.

Mary Jola, the deceased’s sister, pleaded with the government to consider their mother’s cry and pain.

They appealed to the government to do its due diligence and ensure their mother got justice for her beloved son.

The family refuted claims that they met with representatives sent by Jumwa following the tragic incident.

They also raised concerns about why they were never invited to court to testify and have their voices heard.

"We were denied the chance to go to court. No one from our family was taken to court to testify or witness," Isa said, as his brother Kazungu added,

"We were told Jumwa met with the family and had a discussion. But we are the family, and nothing like that has happened," he disclosed.

Separately, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) disclosed the names of the youths allegedly shot by police during the June 25 demonstrations.

The BBC documentary Blood Parliament linked a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer to the Parliament shootings.

The IPOA report intensified demands for justice and police accountability in handling demonstrations.

Source: TUKO.co.ke