By Dorothy Musyoka
In their statement, the opposition blamed the two police bosses for what they said, which was that they failed to protect the protestors who held peaceful demonstrations.
“As Azimio and on behalf of the people, we demand that Inspector General Japheth Koome and Nairobi Regional Commander Mr. Adamson Bungei immediately tender their resignations for failing to protect the peaceful demonstrators,” read the statement.
Additionally, the opposition also demanded that the Director of Public Prosecutions pursue charges against Koome, Bungei, and their implicated officers for their alleged roles in the murders occasioned by the excessive use of force by police officers during the protests.
The Coalition termed the shooting as a tragic event with far-reaching consequences demanding justice to be served on Rex’s murder.
“We also demand that the Director of Public Prosecution bring charges against Koome, Bungei, and their rogue officers for the murders of Rex and the 75,” Azimio added.
Earlier Independent Policing Oversight Authority launched a probe over Rex’s Murder.
Read more: IPOA Launches Probe Into Rex Kanyike Masai Shooting Incident
The opposition party has expressed their dissatisfaction with Rex’s murder who was peaceful, unarmed and non-violent during the protests.
“He braved the cold front to hold up a placard and join in a protest song against the Kenya Kwanza regime. Rex, like his comrades, was peaceful, unarmed and non-violent. But he was senselessly gunned down by a police bullet,” stated Azimio.
Rex was allegedly shot by police on Thursday during street demonstrations to oppose the Finance Bill, 2024, which was being debated in the National Assembly.
Azimio stated that Rex’s death serves as a stark reminder of past days when the opposition lost numerous supporters to police while peacefully exercising their rights.
“Our Coalition is extremely disturbed by Rex’s fatal shooting. We have far too many memories of these tragedies, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and the community that has suffered such a terrible loss,” the Coalition said.
The opposition remarked that the shootings indicate a significant issue with security officers, emphasizing that such tragic incidents are not isolated occurrences in Kenya.
According to the Azimio Party, it’s not long since 75 people who protested were killed by police officers who opted to fire live bullets at peaceful protestors.
“Not long ago, when Kenyans marched for maandamano,75 people were killed because certain police officers opted to fire live bullets into the peaceful crowds. This is the return of a police force instead of a police service contrary to our Constitution,” said Azimio.
However, the coalition demanded the unconditional and immediate release of protestors detained illegally by security agencies.