Babu Owino to Kenyans - Stand with Rex Kanyike's family

Piece by: ALLAN KISIA
Politics

• Rex was fatally shot around 7 pm along Moi Avenue in Nairobi during demonstrations against the Finance Bill, 2024.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino with the family of the late Rex Kanyike Maasai at the City Mortuary ahead of the post mortem on June 21, 2024.
Image: Handout

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has called on Kenyans to rally behind the family of Rex Kanyike Maasai, who tragically lost his life during Thursday evening's protests.

Rex was fatally shot around 7 pm along Moi Avenue in Nairobi during demonstrations against the Finance Bill, 2024.

Addressing reporters at the City Mortuary where he stood in solidarity with Maasai's family ahead of the post-mortem examination, MP Babu Owino expressed profound sorrow at the sight of grieving parents grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy.

"The loss of a life in its prime, taken while fighting for a future unjustly snatched away by the oppressor, is an unbearable price to pay," he lamented.

"We pledge that your sacrifice will not be forgotten, my friend. Farewell, and convey our regards to our founding fathers; let them know that the struggle endures."

The MP also made a personal contribution of Sh200,000 towards the funeral arrangements.

"I urge all Kenyans to stand in solidarity with the family of this fallen hero during these challenging times, offering support through their contributions via paybill, no matter how small," he urged.

During the anti-Finance Bill protest in Nairobi, at least one person lost their life from gunshot wounds. Police have stated they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting of 29-year-old Rex.

Aerial footage captured the moment Rex was shot.

Protesters, after being dispersed from Kenyatta Avenue, City Hall Way, and other gathering points, congregated on Moi Avenue, where witnesses claimed a plainclothes police officer in a cap opened fire on the group as they danced to music from a nearby club.

Rex sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and collapsed on the road, calling out for assistance.

Fellow protesters rushed him to Bliss Hospital Moi Avenue, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.

Check out the latest news here and you are welcome to join our super exclusive Mpasho WhatsApp group for all the latest and breaking news in entertainment. We would also like to hear from you, WhatsApp us on +254 736 944935.