Azimio opposition coalition leaders on Friday called for the immediate resignation of Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei for the killing of Rex Kanyike Masai.
In a press briefing, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka noted that the two failed in their duties to protect the peaceful Kenyans demonstrating against the Finance Bill 2024.
He also demanded that the Director of Public Prosecution institute charges against Koome, Bungei and the officer responsible for Rex’s murder.
“As Azimio and on behalf of the people, we demand that Inspector General Japheth Koome and Nairobi Regional Commander Mr. Adamson Bunge immediately tender their resignations for failing to protect the peaceful demonstrators. We also demand that the Director of Public Prosecution bring charges against Koome, Bungei, and their rogue officers for the murder of Rex,” the statement read in part.
Wiper leader Kalonzo also questioned why police officers took forceful action against protestors who were unarmed and non-violent.
They called for justice and urged that the officer responsible be brought to book.
“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,” he stated.
“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.”
His sentiments were echoed by Embakasi East MP Babu Owino who warned the officer to either surrender himself or face Kenyans’ wrath.
“To the police officer, you must surrender yourself before Kenyans catch up with you before if they get you on the streets, it will be something else.”
The CCTV footage which was shared online showed a police officer shooting at protestors in Nairobi’s CBD area on Thursday night.
Following the incident, news broke out that Rex was fatally wounded.
