On Sunday, October 20, Kenyans took to social media to celebrate Mashujaa Day, particularly honoring those who lost their lives during the June 2024 anti-finance bill protests that occurred nationwide. While the official Mashujaa Day celebrations took place in Kwale County, citizens shared memories of the fallen, many of whom were shot by police during the protests against the government.
Human rights activists had organized parallel Mashujaa Day events at Uhuru Park to remember those who lost their lives. However, a heavy police presence at the park prevented access, resulting in a few arrests.
Among those honored on Mashujaa Day was Rex Masai, who was shot at the beginning of the Gen Z protests, largely organized and participated in by Kenyan youth. His death sparked outrage among Kenyans, especially protesters, who condemned the government for killing an unarmed individual.
Other victims remembered during the observance included Denzel Omondi, whose body was discovered in a quarry, as well as Franklin Otieno and John Njuguna Ndung’u. Human rights organizations reported that 61 people were killed during the Gen Z protests, with many others reported missing. Erickson Kyalo Mutisya was also brutally shot outside Parliament when protesters stormed the building and set parts of the Senate ablaze.
While Kenyans commemorated their fallen heroes, President William Ruto led the national celebrations in Kwale, where he acknowledged Kenyan freedom fighters who fought for the country’s independence. Ruto specifically remembered Mekatilili wa Menza and Moraa Ng’iti for their contributions to Kenya’s liberation. He also promised that his Affordable Housing project would benefit all Kenyans.
