As reported by Al Jazeera, the tragic death of 19-year-old Ibrahim Kamau Wanjiku has sparked outrage and grief across Kenya. Wanjiku, a recent high school graduate with aspirations of studying electrical work, was shot and killed by police during protests against a proposed finance bill that would raise taxes on essential goods.
"My son was just a young man with dreams," said Wanjiku's heartbroken mother, Edith, at his funeral, which was attended by hundreds, including a local member of parliament. Witnesses recounted the harrowing details, with one stating, "Wanjiku was shot multiple times at close range by an unidentified officer as he participated in the demonstrations outside parliament."
These protests were organized by disenchanted Kenyan youth, who were desperately trying to sway legislators into rejecting the contentious finance bill. "We were just trying to make our voices heard," said one protester. However, the clashes between protesters and police resulted in over 20 fatalities. A human rights organization representative condemned the alleged police brutality, saying, "An investigation has been launched by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and those responsible must be held accountable."
Kenya, like Nigeria, is home to 3 major tribes and at least 42 ethnic groups. Yet, in the face of this tragedy, the youth of Kenya have united in their grief over Wanjiku's passing. "Ibrahim's death has become a rallying cry for justice," said a local activist. "We will not rest until we see real change and accountability from the government."