Outrage in Nairobi Following Police Shooting of Protester

Tensions are high in Nairobi following the fatal shooting of a young protester by police during the Gen Z-led demonstrations against the proposed Finance Bill 2024. The deceased, 24-year-old Rex Kanyike, was shot on Thursday evening, sparking widespread condemnation and calls for justice.

Kanyike, who was identified by authorities, is currently lying at the City Mortuary Morgue. According to Austin Arnold, a lawyer involved in the case, Kanyike was heading home around 7 PM with a friend when he was shot outside Hilton Hotel on Moi Avenue. The fatal bullet, fired by a rogue police officer using live rounds, lodged in Kanyike's knee and caused excessive bleeding, leading to his death.

"He spent more than 20 minutes seeking medical attention," Arnold said. "By the time he was rushed to Bliss Medical Centre along Moi Avenue, he was confirmed dead on arrival."

Arnold recounted the distressing night he spent with Kanyike’s family: "I have spent the night with the family of Rex and we have delivered the body to City Mortuary for post-mortem in the morning. It is a shattered family. They are clinging to hope, because that's all they can do."

Prominent activist Boniface Mwangi also spoke on the incident, confirming it in a statement on X. "I'm sharing pictures of 24-year-old Rex Kanyike lying in the morgue with consent from his parents, Chrispin Odawa and Gillian Munyao, who are standing over his body at the City Mortuary," Mwangi said. "He was killed by the police this evening. They're shocked and numb from the loss of their son."

The tragic death of Kanyike has ignited outrage among Kenyans, who are taking to social media to demand accountability and justice. Many are using the hashtag #JusticeForRex to voice their anger and call for an end to police brutality.

The ongoing protests against the Finance Bill 2024, led primarily by the youth, have been marked by escalating tensions between demonstrators and law enforcement. The bill, which proposes significant changes to the country's financial regulations, has faced substantial opposition from various groups, particularly the younger generation who feel disproportionately affected by its provisions.

As the investigation into Kanyike's death continues, the incident has amplified calls for police reform and greater accountability within the force. The tragic loss of a young life has once again brought to the forefront the urgent need to address issues of excessive force and the protection of citizens' rights in Kenya.