By Janet Nyamwamu
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has petitioned the Senate to investigate reports that three Kenyans may have died in the ongoing Russia–Ukraine War.
Raising the matter in the Senate, Onyonka asked the Standing Committee on National Security, Defence and Foreign Relations to provide a comprehensive statement on the circumstances surrounding matter.
In particular, he mentioned Denis Ombwori Bagaka, Wahome Simon Gititu and Clinton Nyapara Mogesa who allegedly lost their lives in the war.
Preliminary reports indicate the three may have died during the conflict, with Ukrainian authorities reportedly recovering their remains.
“The matter raises serious diplomatic and humanitarian questions, particularly regarding the State’s response when Kenyan citizens are caught up in foreign conflicts,” Onyonka told the House.
The senator also revealed that Bagaka previously served in the Kenya Defence Forces and that his family has not heard from him since September 2025.
“The prolonged silence has caused immense anguish to the family and underscores the government’s obligation to account for and protect Kenyan citizens abroad,” he said.
Onyonka is now seeking official confirmation of the identities of the deceased and clarity on the steps being taken by the government to facilitate the return of their bodies to Kenya.
In a separate request, the senator also asked the Senate to investigate a reported security breach at the Kisii County Assembly on December 2, 2025.
According to Onyonka, about 20 armed individuals allegedly forced their way into the assembly precincts, harassed Members and damaged property, including vehicles belonging to elected leaders who were on official duty.
“This was a grave violation within a constitutionally protected institution,” he said, adding that the incident exposed serious security lapses.
The lawmaker called on the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and the National Police Service to identify those responsible and outline measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in county assemblies across the country.