Family Slapped with Ksh1.5M Demand Letter After Burial Chaos

The family of the late Chief Austino Odongo has been hit with a compensation claim of Ksh1.5 million for damages during his chaotic funeral. The incident happened on Saturday, February 8, 2025, when chaos erupted between the supporters of Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, former Sports Cabinet Secretary Rashid Echesa and Matungu MP Peter Nabulindo.

In a letter, Shan Events accused the family of failing to ensure security, leading to property destruction.

The Company’s Operations Manager, Abraham Odhiambo Otieno, revealed that the aftermath of the melee led to losses amounting to Ksh.1.8 million and are demanding for compensation.

“As you are aware, chaos erupted during the event, leading to the loss and damage of equipment that was vital to our service delivery. The losses incurred have been assessed, and the total value of the damaged and lost equipment stands at Ksh.1.8 million,” read the letter.

Youths celebrate as Former CS Rashid Echesa makes his way at former chief Augustine Odongo’s fumeral. PHOTO/Rashid Echesa. Kakamega — Youths celebrate as Former CS Rashid Echesa makes his way at former chief Augustine Odongo’s funeral. PHOTO/Rashid Echesa

“The failure to ensure adequate safety measures resulted in the aforementioned losses. We therefore formally demand compensation in the sum of Ksh.1,561,850 payable within 14 days from the date of this notice.”

Further, the company threatened to instigate legal action against the deceased’s family if the aforementioned amount is not paid within two weeks.

“Failure to settle this matter within the stipulated time frame may leave us with no option but to pursue legal action to recover the losses. We hope, however, that this matter can be resolved amicably without the need for such measures,” Odhiambo added.

Breakdown of the Damages

The damages include 4 Nexo Line RA Speakers valued at Ksh.320,000, one Microphone Snyzer (Ksh.150,000), two Rachets (Ksh.80,000), 8 LED screens (Ksh.640,000), and one Toshiba Laptop (Ksh.35,000).

Others were: 161 broken plastic chairs (Ksh.136,850), 20 VIP Red Banquet Chairs (Ksh.160,000) and one VIP wooden chair which costs Ksh.40,000.

Also Read: DCI Summons Governor, Ex-CS & MP After Burial Chaos

Family Returns Donations

Several people sustained injuries during the clash, forcing mourners to flee for safety.

Odongo’s family announced their decision to return contributions from Echesa and Nabulindo.

In a statement, the family explained that they had given the politicians time to check on their well-being after the chaos, but none did.

Also Read: Chaos in Nairobi CBD as Matatu Operators Clash at Kencom

“Regrettably, none of you has done so. This action—or inaction—speaks volumes. Therefore, as a demonstration of our disapproval, we have returned the gifts you extended to us, including all transaction charges, as annexed hereunder,” the statement read.

The family returned Ksh50,000 to CS Echesa, along with one bull and Ksh10,000 in cash from MP Nabulindo.