Leaders of the Azimio opposition coalition have called for the immediate resignation of Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei following the killing of Rex Kanyike Masai during protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
In a press briefing on Friday, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka criticized Koome and Bungei for failing to protect peaceful demonstrators. He also demanded that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) bring charges against the two police officials and the officer responsible for Rex’s death.
“As Azimio and on behalf of the people, we demand that Inspector General Japheth Koome and Nairobi Regional Commander Adamson Bungei immediately tender their resignations for failing to protect peaceful demonstrators. We also demand that the DPP bring charges against Koome, Bungei, and the rogue officers for the murder of Rex,” Musyoka stated.
The call for resignation comes after CCTV footage shared online showed a police officer shooting at protestors in Nairobi’s Central Business District on Thursday night. The footage sparked outrage and calls for justice among the public and political leaders.
Musyoka questioned the necessity of the police’s forceful actions against unarmed and non-violent protestors. “Why were police officers taking such forceful action against unarmed and non-violent protestors?” he asked. He further emphasized the coalition’s commitment to seeking justice for Rex Kanyike Masai and his family.
“This is a tragic event with far-reaching consequences. 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,” Musyoka said. “We stand with Rex, his family, and his comrades. We pledge to offer all the help required in seeking answers and justice. We demand that these perpetrators of police brutality be arrested and charged with murder in a court of law.”
Echoing Musyoka’s sentiments, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino warned the officer involved in the shooting to surrender to the authorities or face the wrath of the public. “To the police officer, you must surrender yourself before Kenyans catch up with you. If they get you on the streets, it will be something else,” Owino stated.
The incident has prompted the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to launch a probe into Rex Kanyike Masai’s killing, seeking to uncover the details and hold those responsible accountable.
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