Sammy Cullen Maina, a young university student who had been reported missing, has been confirmed dead.
Maina, a student at KCA University, was last seen participating in the Finance Bill protests on June 25, 2024.
He disappeared during the protests, and his body was later found at the city mortuary.
The discovery of Maina’s body has shocked the community and sparked widespread outrage.
Pictures circulating online depict a harrowing ordeal: Maina’s body was badly mutilated, tortured, and burnt.
The brutality inflicted on the young student has drawn condemnation from various quarters, highlighting the escalating violence and human rights abuses associated with recent protests in Kenya.
Maina’s family and friends had been desperately searching for him since he went missing.
His friend, who was with him during the protests, reported losing contact with him in the chaos.
The protests against the Finance Bill have been marked by clashes between demonstrators and police, with reports of excessive force being used to disperse crowds.
The confirmation of Maina’s death has intensified calls for accountability and justice.
Human rights organizations and activists are demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
“This is a tragic and unacceptable loss of a young life. We must hold those responsible accountable and ensure that such brutality is never repeated,” said one human rights advocate.
KCA University issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to Maina’s family.
The university community has been urged to remain calm as they seek justice for their fellow student.
“We stand with the family of Sammy Cullen Maina during this difficult time. His death is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by young people advocating for their rights,” the statement read.
The protests against the Finance Bill have been driven by widespread frustration over the high cost of living and perceived government mismanagement.
Demonstrators argue that the bill will further burden ordinary Kenyans with increased taxes and reduced public services.
The unrest has led to several violent incidents, with numerous injuries and arrests reported.
Maina’s death has now become a symbol of the risks faced by those who take to the streets to demand change.
His family is calling for a swift and transparent investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
“We want answers. We want justice for Cullen. No family should have to go through what we are experiencing right now,” said Maina’s mother.
As the investigation into Maina’s death unfolds, the incident has added urgency to the broader conversation about police conduct and the treatment of protesters in Kenya.
The government is under increasing pressure to address these issues and ensure the protection of its citizens’ rights to peacefully protest.
The nation mourns with Maina’s family and demands a future where young voices can be heard without fear of violence and repression.
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