Kenyans Demand Justice for Rex Kanyike Masai, Killed by Police During Protests

Nairobi, Kenya — Outrage and sorrow swept through Kenya's capital yesterday after Rex Kanyike Masai, a 26-year-old university student, was fatally shot by police during demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill 2024. Eyewitnesses report that Masai, an active participant in the peaceful protest, was shot in cold blood by police officers attempting to disperse the crowd.

The Finance Bill 2024 has sparked widespread discontent across the nation, with many Kenyans arguing that the proposed tax hikes and austerity measures will disproportionately affect the economically disadvantaged. The protests, largely peaceful, turned violent when police allegedly used excessive force to break up the gathering.

Masai's death has become a symbol of the ongoing struggle for justice and police accountability in Kenya. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as police fired tear gas and live ammunition into the crowd. "Rex was not posing any threat," said John Mburu, a fellow protester. "He was simply exercising his constitutional right to protest when he was gunned down."

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Kenyans have taken to social media and the streets, demanding justice for Masai and an end to police brutality. The hashtag #JusticeForRex has trended nationwide, with citizens calling for an independent investigation into the incident.

Human rights organizations have condemned the police actions, urging the government to hold the officers involved accountable. "This is a blatant violation of human rights," said a representative from Amnesty International Kenya. "The use of lethal force against peaceful protesters is unacceptable and must be thoroughly investigated."

Government officials have promised to look into the matter, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i stating, "We will ensure that justice is served for the family of Rex Kanyike Masai."

As the nation mourns the loss of a young life, the call for justice and reform continues to echo across Kenya. Masai's death is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address police brutality and uphold the rights of all citizens.