Rex Masai’s mother rejects compensation, demands arrest of her son’s killers
By William Muthama, June 25, 2026The mother of the late Rex Kanyike Masai has renewed calls for accountability over her son’s death, insisting that no amount of compensation can replace justice.
Speaking during the Thursday, June 25, 2026 commemoration of the Gen Z protests, where she marched alongside political leaders, activists and families of victims to pay tribute to those killed during the 2024 demonstrations, Munyao renewed her call for accountability in her son’s death.
“My name is Gillian Munyao. I am the mother of Rex Kajike-Masai,” she said before calling for action against those responsible for her son’s death.
According to Munyao, compensation should not be used as a substitute for accountability.
“Compensation cannot replace accountability,” she stated.
Message to government
In her message, Munyao urged authorities to focus on bringing those responsible to justice rather than discussing compensation.
“Arrest the killer cops. That’s the message to the government,” she said.
Her statement echoed the sentiments expressed by many protesters and human rights advocates who have continued to push for accountability over deaths linked to the 2024 demonstrations.
Thursday’s commemoration drew families of victims, survivors of the 2024 protests, civil society groups and opposition leaders who participated in memorial marches and candlelighting ceremonies across the country.
In Nairobi, security remained tight as police mounted roadblocks around key government installations and major roads.
Despite the heavy deployment, mourners and protesters gathered to remember those who died during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, laying flowers and demanding justice for victims whose families say accountability remains elusive two years later
Munyao’s remarks come two years after Rex Masai was killed during the anti-Finance Bill protests that swept across the country in June 2024.
His death became one of the defining moments of the Gen Z-led demonstrations, with many young Kenyans citing the incident as a symbol of the need for justice and police accountability.