Orengo promises eternal memory for slain protest hero Rex Masai

Siaya Governor James Orengo offered heartfelt praise for Rex Kanyike Masai, hailing him as a hero whose sacrifice would remain etched in the memories of Kenyans advocating for justice and democracy. During a visit to the deceased’s family in Machakos, Orengo consoled the parents, expressing the nation’s appreciation for raising a young man who emerged as a symbol of resistance during the 2024 youth-led anti-Finance Bill protests. “I want to tell Mama Rex and Baba Rex and the community here, remain strong, and we shall never forget that you raised a hero for us. Rex will always be a hero in our hearts and minds,” Orengo stated. The county leader mentioned his conversations with Rex’s mother and promised ongoing support to the family, including intentions to enhance Rex’s burial site. “I determined that we should properly construct Rex’s grave, and once I receive approval, we will collaborate to ensure that is accomplished,” he explained. Orengo indicated that opposition-aligned leaders would continue visiting the family to commemorate Rex and preserve the principles he championed. “This is not our final visit here, Mama Rex. We will remain with you because if we don’t return, it would be as if Rex vanished and his efforts were in vain. But since he fought for a cause, we will continue coming back,” he affirmed. The governor connected Rex’s passing to the wider struggle for democratic liberties in Kenya, noting the youth demonstrations embodied ideals long advocated by ODM and the late opposition leader Raila Odinga. “We will never lower our vigilance. We will persist in our efforts to ensure Kenya becomes a free, democratic and thriving nation,” Orengo declared. He also endorsed planned June 25 commemorations marking two years since the devastating anti-Finance Bill protests that impacted the nation. “I am aware June 25 approaches. Political figures, including Kalonzo Musyoka, have mentioned the 25th of June. United, we will stand alongside Gen Z to create an appropriate tribute to individuals like Rex, who were brutally killed by law enforcement,” he noted. Rex Masai became one of the most recognizable figures of the youth protests after he was reportedly shot during demonstrations against Finance Bill 2024 along Moi Avenue in Nairobi in June 2024. He subsequently died while undergoing medical care, triggering widespread indignation and demands for accountability regarding police brutality. The 29-year-old’s demise mobilized young demonstrators nationwide and transformed him into a symbol of opposition against excessive taxation and perceived governmental oppression during the protests. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) subsequently initiated investigations into the fatal shooting. An inquest into his death, seeking to determine exactly how he was killed and if any individuals bear criminal liability, remains ongoing in court, with forensic specialists, law enforcement personnel, and witnesses continuing to provide testimony as authorities attempt to ascertain who shot him.