By Andrew Mbuva
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has issued a stern warning to the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Kenya, demanding urgent action over the rising number of unexplained deaths of Kenyan citizens in Saudi Arabia.
Speaking during the burial of 22-year-old Benjamin Kioko Ndunda at Katulye in Kibwezi East, Makueni County, Sonko threatened to mobilize Kenyans to shut down the embassy if the issue is not addressed.
Kioko recently lost his life in a tragic incident in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and his death has intensified public concern over the safety of Kenyans working in Gulf countries.
According to Sonko, over 1,000 Kenyan youths—mostly women—have died under unclear circumstances in Saudi Arabia, yet no concrete explanations or justice have been provided.
“I’m urging our Members of Parliament to raise this matter on the floor of the House. We cannot continue tolerating an embassy that turns a blind eye while our people suffer,” Sonko declared.
He emphasized that Kenya warmly hosts foreign nationals, including Saudis, and expects the same courtesy to be extended to Kenyans living and working abroad.
“We treat foreigners with dignity here at home. It’s time our people abroad were treated with the same respect,” he added.
Sonko’s sentiments were supported by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, who also expressed gratitude to Kenya’s High Commissioner to Dubai, Ambassador David Iboko Lokemer, for facilitating the return of Kioko’s body.
Kibwezi East MP Jessica Mbalu was also present at the emotional funeral, which turned into a platform for leaders to call for justice and accountability in the treatment of Kenyans in the Gulf region.
