Nairobi, Kenya – Thursday, September 11, 2025, 11:00 AM (EAT) – Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has linked the shocking assassination of prominent Nairobi lawyer Mathew Kyalo Mbobu to land and financial disputes he had been handling in court.
Speaking during a TV interview on Thursday, Maanzo warned that cases involving huge sums of money and contested land often expose lawyers to grave risks. He urged individuals with information about the murder to assist police in their investigations.
“When you are dealing with cases involving a lot of money or land, there’s bound to be danger. Whoever has information about these people should report to the police,” Maanzo stated.
Lawyer Shot Dead in Nairobi
Lawyer Mbobu was fatally shot on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, along Magadi Road, Nairobi. His assassination has sparked outrage across Kenya’s political divide, with leaders uniting to demand swift justice.
Mbobu, who had 30 years of legal practice, also lectured at the University of Nairobi. His family, led by lawyer James Maluki, has appealed to the government to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing. They want answers on who pulled the trigger, who financed the act, and why the prominent legal practitioner was targeted.
Leaders Condemn Mbobu’s Killing
Nyando MP Jared Okello strongly condemned the killing, warning that assassins are becoming increasingly bold.
“These assassins, whoever they are, are becoming emboldened by the day. Therefore, the security systems need to be more proactive and thwart such acts,” Okello said during a Thursday interview.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also weighed in, describing Mbobu as a charming and fair lawyer whom he knew personally. Writing on X, Sifuna called the assassination a “pointer to the worsening state of insecurity in Kenya.”
“The circumstances of his death are heartbreaking, painful, and worrying, especially in light of recent similar executions. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues in this difficult time,” Sifuna wrote.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi has also urged authorities to conduct a swift and thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
Growing Concerns Over Security
The killing comes amid rising concern over insecurity in Kenya. In recent months, several high-profile murders and attempted assassinations have taken place. This has shaken public confidence in the government’s ability to protect its citizens. Analysts warn that unless addressed urgently, such incidents risk normalising political violence and eroding the rule of law.
For more on Kenya’s rising insecurity, read: How assassinations are shaping politics in Kenya and Inside the rising wave of crime in Nairobi.
