Well-wishers raise Sh2m for Rex and Evans killed in anti-tax protests

A fundraiser organized in honor of two young men killed during last week’s anti-tax protests quickly surpassed its target, raising over Sh2 million within eight hours.

The campaign aimed to raise funds for Rex Kanyeki Masai, 29, who died on Thursday evening from injuries sustained by a live bullet allegedly fired by police, and Evans Kiratu, 21, who died the following day after reportedly being struck by a tear gas canister fired by the police.

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As of the latest update, Sh2,242,830 had been collected from 6,486 supporters.

“Rex and Evans supported us with everything they had; it’s our turn to support their families. Join us to ensure this cause succeeds,” read the M-Changa notification. “Funds will be distributed equally to the Masai and Kiratu families,” it added.

Rex, widely known and loved, was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Bliss Healthcare Centre on Moi Avenue. His death occurred during a protest in Nairobi on Thursday, June 20, where demonstrators voiced their opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which MPs are set to vote on Tuesday after it passed its second reading by a vote of 204-115.

“My son was a calm and jovial boy. We would laugh a lot whenever I called him. He never made enemies and was a dreamer. He studied surveying but, after failing to find a job, he moved out to start his own life. Sometimes he called to ask for fare or food money when his daily hustles didn’t work out. We laughed about his lack of a wife or money, but I’d still send him what he needed,” his father, Chrispin Odawa, mourned.

His mother, Gillian Munyao, expressed her sorrow, recalling his always-happy demeanor and generosity. “He was a giver, a good boy, and known among his friends for his generosity. He loved peace and was obedient. Even at his age, I’d still ask him to do house chores. My friends considered him their son. If he made a mistake, he’d ask for forgiveness. He was like my pastor; if he earned 35,000 shillings, he’d send me Sh10,000 as his tithe. I will remember him for his generosity.”

Evans Kiratu’s mother, Ann Wanjiru, confirmed her son’s death, sharing that a Good Samaritan informed her late on the night of June 22, 2024, that her son had been injured, only for her to discover that he had already died.

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“He died after the canister exploded. I have identified my son’s body. I want the government to explain if we elected them to kill our children. I had hopes and dreams for him,” said Ms. Wanjiru.

After being injured, Kiratu was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital by a bystander who found him wounded on the street. He was pursuing a plumbing course and was on attachment at the time of his death. He hailed from Kiambu and had moved out of his parents’ home just a month ago.

Organizers of the marches have threatened to paralyze key activities starting Tuesday and have asked parents to keep their children at home. Protesters plan to gather at the offices of the Independent Police Oversight Authority and the Inspector-General of Police to demand justice for those killed and injured by security agents.