Kenyans Laud Sonko for Coordinating Repatriation of Kenyans Killed in UAE Fire

Kenyans have lauded former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko for his prompt intervention and coordination that has seen bodies of three Kenyans who died in a fire tragedy cleared for repatriation.

A number of social media users who commented on the governor’s decision to lead a sombre procession at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for the arrival of one of the bodies said the move was a strong gesture to the family.

The governor after consulting with the family led the procession to  receive the body of Benjamin Kioko Ndunda at the airport on Monday morning.

“He has shown that you can break government bureaucracy in times of crisis and emergency by applying diplomacy,” Mary Wambua who is an influencer said.

Journalist Kevin Cherryot pleaded with recruitment agencies who take Kenyans to the gulf to find a way of working with Sonko incase of any challenges.

“ He seems to have the goodwill of the embassies and government officials and has the time to coordinate some of these issues,” he posted.

The body of the late Benjamin Kioko Ndunda was the first to arrive and was immediately escorted to Montezuma Monalisa Funeral Home following brief prayers at the airport.

The deceased – Ian Ndung’u Mungai, Kennedy Kamau Wangari, and Kioko– tragically lost their lives in a residential blaze that occurred in Sharjah several days ago, leaving families and the Kenyan diaspora community in mourning.

Of the remaining bodies, one is expected to arrive in the country on Tuesday, and the remaining one will arrive on Wednesday.

“Kioko will be laid to rest on Friday, the 9th of this month. May the Lord continue resting the souls of our departed brothers in peace,” Sonko said.

He thanked the Government of Kenya, particularly Principal Secretary for Aviation Terry Mbaika, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka, the Kenyan Embassy and Consulate in the UAE, and the funeral committee in Sharjah led by Timothy and Hon. Jessica Mbalu, MP for Kibwezi East for helping during the repatriation exercise.

The somber ceremony was marked by prayers and tributes, as Sonko, who personally coordinated the repatriation, stood alongside the bereaved families to offer support.