A close friend of the late Rex Kanyike Masai has given a chilling account of the moments leading up to his death during the Gen Z anti-Finance Bill protest in Nairobi. Testifying in Milimani Court, the witness described hearing a series of gunshots before Masai was struck, painting a vivid picture of chaos and urgency as friends tried to save him.
Highlights:
- Masai was hit during a protest on June 20, 2024, in Nairobi’s CBD.
- His friend heard three gunshots in quick succession before the fatal injury.
- Attempts to get Masai medical care were hampered by locked clinic gates.
- Armed police in uniform and plain clothes were present at the scene.
- Court proceedings continue to determine police responsibility in the death.
Main Story:
Eyewitness Account of the Shooting
George Ndikas, a close friend of Masai, told the court that the protest had been peaceful until police moved in. According to his testimony, he and Masai were at the back of the crowd and not involved in any confrontation when he heard three gunshots fired in rapid succession. Moments later, he realized Masai had been hit and was limping from a bullet wound.
Desperate Attempts to Save Masai
Friends and bystanders rushed to get Masai to medical care, but their efforts were blocked when they found the clinic gates locked. In a frantic move, they forced entry, yet Masai’s injuries were too severe, and he died before proper treatment could be administered. Ndikas also noted that both uniformed and plain-clothes officers were present at the scene during the incident.
Court Investigation Continues
The ongoing inquest seeks to determine whether the actions of police directly led to Masai’s death. Previous evidence, including CCTV footage, has implicated plain-clothes officers, although some have denied being present. Witnesses also stated that protesters were dispersing due to police gunfire and teargas, rather than clashing among themselves.
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