Written by Were Kelly
Milimani Law Courts on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, scheduled fresh hearing dates in the murder case of Rex Masai, setting the matter for September 1 and September 8 at 9:00 AM. This comes after the virtual testimony of a protected witness linked a plainclothes police officer to Masai’s fatal shooting during the anti-Finance Bill protests in June 2024.
The witness, identified only as “GG,” testified from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) offices under strict protection protocols, including voice distortion and identity concealment.
The court approved the setup despite objections from the National Police Service, which wanted the testimony heard in chambers with a police counsel present. The Law Society of Kenya and the witness’s legal team argued successfully for full anonymity due to safety concerns.
During the testimony, GG described witnessing an armed plainclothes officer dispersing peaceful protesters with teargas near Holy Family Basilica on June 18, 2024. The same officer—identified by a unique facial birthmark and matching gear—was later spotted along Uhuru Highway on June 20 aiding uniformed police. The officer’s repeated aggressive behavior, including allegedly launching a teargas canister at a journalist, led the witness to document him further.
“The protests were peaceful. People were chanting ‘Reject Finance Bill.’ I did not see any criminal gangs,” the witness told the court, asserting that only plainclothes officers were observed using force and making arrests.
The officer in question is believed to be Isaiah Murangiri, as matched with previously recorded footage. The ODPPargued that exposing the witness’s identity could put their life at risk, a concern that the court acknowledged.
Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo ruled in favor of the prosecution and directed that the protected witness testify virtually. The case will resume in September, with additional witnesses expected to appear.
