Protester killed during finance bill demos laid to rest in Machakos

Erickson Kyalo Mutisya, a 25-year-old man who lost his life during the recent finance bill demonstrations in Nairobi, was on Friday buried in Kisekini village, in Kathiani, Machakos County.

Mutisya, was shot dead by police outside Parliament grounds on June 25 when protesters invaded the National Assembly.

Erickson, the second-born child of Johnstone Mutisya and Caroline Nduku Mutisya, was mourned by family, friends, and leaders who condemned the police violence that claimed his life and those of 20 others during what was meant to be a peaceful protest.

James Munyao, Erickson’s brother described him as a loving and kind individual. He reminisced about the cherished moments they had together and talked of the sense of loss the family felt.

"If I could write a story it would be the greatest ever told of a kind and of a loving brother. You had a heart of gold, I could write a million pages but there is one thing that I would say is that just know how much I love you and miss you," said Munyao.

Erickson’s parents likewise highlighted their profound grief, describing their son as hardworking and loving young man calling for divine justice for his untimely death.

Komrade Bush, the Bunge la Mwananchi Attorney General, on his part honored Erickson as a hero, condemning what he termed as a state-sponsored violence that led to his death.

He also demanded President William Ruto's resignation Ruto, further advocating for a government built on equity and dignity.

"Eric died when exercising his sovereign right under article 1 of the constitution which is protected in article 37 of the constitution. And at the time he was murdered in a state sponsored massacre, Eric was a member of bunge la mwananchi yeye alikuwa anaandamana na wananchi na alikuwa na anaandamana peacefully," said Komrade Bush.

Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu, also in attendance,  expressed her sorrow, noting the deep pain of parents having to bury their children.

She criticized President Ruto for not addressing the demonstrators grievances sooner, emphasizing the need for job creation and justice for Kenya's youth.

"Inaudhi inahuzunisha kuzika mtoto na tunataka kuongea na president ruto, for sure haingekuchukua watoto hawa kukufa na Gen Z hawa kuenda kwa street ndio ueze kufanya jinsi wanavyo sema. Mr. president bado tunakuomba uwasikilize na utende haki," she said.

Erickson known for his jovial personality, was celebrated by his friends who sang and danced hopeful that he was in a better place.