Rex Masai: 1st anti-finance bill protester killed by police to be buried on July 5

• Rex Masai was shot dead by police who responded to anti-finance bill protests in Nairobi on Thursday, June 20
• The government pathologist confirmed that Masai died due to excessive bleeding after he was shot in the thigh
• His father, Chrispine Odawa, said his burial has been delayed due to unresolved issues and thanked leaders for supporting them in the burial plans

Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings more than three years of experience covering politics, news, and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

At least 23 protesters were shot dead by anti-riot police during the anti-finance bill protests in the country.

Rex Masai (l) was shot dead during anti-finance bill protests in Nairobi. Protesters against Finance Bill 2024 in the Nairobi CBD (r). Photo: Rex Masai/Anadolu via Getty Images. Source: Facebook

During the Thursday, June 20 demonstrations, a 29-year-old Rex Masai was allegedly killed by the police who responded to the protests, sparking widespread outrage among many Kenyan Gen Z members and political leaders alike.

When is Rex Masai's burial date?

Chrispine Odawa, Masai's father, announced that his son would be laid to rest at their family home in Kamuthanga, Machakos County, on July 5, according to Nation.

“My son will be buried on July 5 in Kamuthanga, Machakos county,” he affirmed, attributing the delay to some ‘unresolved’ issues.

According to the pathologist’s findings, Rex was shot in the thigh and succumbed to excessive bleeding as a result.

Odawa expressed gratitude to numerous compassionate politicians and well-wishers who have generously supported the family to ensure that Masai receives a dignified farewell.

“I would like to thank all the leaders who have offered us support, be it financial or emotional,” he added.

What happened the day Masai was killed?

In fresh updates, Gillian Munyao, the mother, emotionally described her son Masai's final moments before the deadly shooting.

She mentioned Masai was teargassed with other demonstrators close to Kenya National Archives later that ill-fated day.

Munyao learned about her son's situation from a friend who revisited the scene after an unidentified police officer fired at the protestors, and Masai was missing.

What else you need to know about Rex Masai

• CCTV footage emerged showing the moment Rex Masai was killed by a suspected civilian officer
• Several Kenyans mourned the departed Rex Masai who courageously fought for the future of the youths
• Lawyer Miguna Miguna joined Kenyans in paying emotional tributes to Masai