By Bonface Mulyungi
Siaya Governor James Orengo has paid a glowing tribute to Rex Kanyike Masai, describing him as a hero whose sacrifice would never be forgotten by Kenyans fighting for justice and democracy.
While comforting the deceased’s parents during a visit to their family in Machakos, Orengo said the country owed them gratitude for raising a young man who became a symbol of resistance during the 2024 Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill protests.
“I want to tell Mama Rex and Baba Rex and the community here, be strong, and we shall never forget that you produced a hero for us. Rex will continue to be a hero in our hearts and minds,” Orengo said.
The county boss said he had held discussions with Rex’s mother and pledged continued support to the family, including plans to improve Rex’s gravesite.
“I convinced myself that we should build the grave of Rex properly, and when I’m given the signal, we shall work together and make sure that is done,” he said.
Orengo said leaders allied to the opposition would continue visiting the family to honour Rex’s memory and keep alive the ideals he stood for.
“This is not our last visit here, Mama Rex. We will continue to be with you because if we don’t come back again, it is like Rex is gone, and he fought for nothing. But because he fought for something, we shall continue coming back,” he stated.
The governor linked Rex’s death to the broader struggle for democratic freedoms in Kenya, saying the youth-led protests reflected ideals long championed by ODM and opposition leader, the late Raila Odinga.
“We will never, ever let our guard down. We will continue to fight to make sure Kenya is a free, democratic and prosperous nation,” Orengo said.
He also signalled support for planned June 25 commemorations marking two years since the deadly anti-Finance Bill protests that shook the country.
“I know June 25 is coming. Political leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, have talked about the 25th of June. Together we shall stand behind Gen Zs to ensure we have a fitting memorial to people like Rex, who were killed brutally by the police,” he said.
Rex Masai became one of the most prominent faces of the Gen Z protests after he was allegedly shot during demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024 along Moi Avenue in Nairobi in June 2024.
He later died while receiving treatment, sparking nationwide outrage and demands for accountability over police brutality.
The 29-year-old’s death galvanised young protesters across the country and turned him into a symbol of resistance against punitive taxation and alleged state repression during the demonstrations.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) later launched investigations into the fatal shooting.
An inquest into his death, aimed at establishing exactly how he was killed and whether any individual bears criminal responsibility, is still ongoing before the courts, with forensic experts, police officers and witnesses continuing to testify as investigators seek to determine who shot him.
