Family of slain Gen Z protester cries for justice

Kakamega residents protest against Finance Bill 2024, on June 25, 2024. [File, Standard]

A family mourning their loved one lost during last year's Gen Z protests is struggling with grief and unanswered questions amid deafening silence from the government.

Maurice Shiramba, father of Caroline Shiramba, 34, who was fatally shot by a stray bullet in Kakamega town during the nationwide protests, says the pain of losing his daughter remains raw.

"Since the day my daughter was killed, no government official has visited or called to offer condolences. One year later, we are still waiting for justice," Shiramba told The Standard.

He added, "We've been taken round in circles, and even the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which once assured us it would pursue the matter, has since gone silent."

Shiramba now calls on President William Ruto to intervene and ensure that all victims of the June protests receive compensation and justice. "The President should provide direction to affected families, through compensation or by bringing those responsible to account," he said.

What began as peaceful demonstrations against proposed tax hikes and widespread corruption quickly grew into a national movement demanding accountability and economic justice.

However, clashes between protesters and police turned tragic, leaving many injured and several dead.

Alice Shiramba, Caroline's mother, added the family is uncertain where to hold a commemoration. "Other victims' families held a mass service in Nairobi, but in Kakamega, we did not. As we plan Wednesday's commemoration, we urge the government to ensure justice for the victims," she said.

Families from Kisumu, Nairobi, Nakuru and Mombasa are also expected to gather in Nairobi on Wednesday for a peaceful march and vigil.

Civil society groups and human rights defenders support the initiative, calling for renewed investigations into the deaths. "The right to protest is constitutional. Those who died deserve justice, not silence," said Ruth Wafula of the Kenya Youth Justice Network.