Shock and grief have gripped the Kenyan education fraternity following the tragic killing of Kenyan teacher John Okoth Ogutu in Tanzania during post-election protests on October 29.
Ogutu, who was working at Sky Schools in Dar es Salaam, is reported to have been shot as security forces clashed with demonstrators in the Ubungo area. The protests erupted after disputed election results sparked countrywide demonstrations and a heavy security crackdown.
Human rights defender Hussein Khalid confirmed the incident, noting that Ogutu’s body is currently at Mwananyamala Mortuary in Dar es Salaam.
“This is a painful loss. He was a hardworking Kenyan contributing to the education sector abroad,” he shared while urging authorities in both countries to ensure a thorough investigation.
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According to preliminary reports, Ogutu was not participating in the protests but was caught in the crossfire while going about his routine. Friends and colleagues described him as a dedicated educator, passionate about community development and youth empowerment.
Efforts are underway to coordinate the repatriation of his body to Kenya, with family members calling for justice and answers surrounding the exact circumstances of his killing.
The Kenyan community in Tanzania has also appealed to authorities for enhanced protection of foreign nationals living and working in the country.
The incident has raised diplomatic concern, with calls for Kenyan authorities to engage their Tanzanian counterparts to ensure accountability and safeguard citizens abroad, particularly during periods of political tension.
As investigations continue, relatives, friends, and the wider teaching community are mourning a life lost abruptly and unjustly — a young educator whose mission to shape futures was cut short far from home.
By Philip Koech
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