Family and friends gathered to bid a tearful farewell to Rex Kanyike Masai, an anti-finance bill protester who lost his life during the height of the demonstrations. The somber ceremony took place at St. Stephens Church along Jogoo Road, where emotional scenes unfolded as his family viewed his body, some requiring assistance from first aid officials.

Rex was honored as a patriot in a mass attended by hundreds. He died on June 20th, becoming the first casualty in the anti-finance bill demonstrations organized by Gen Z to oppose the proposed Finance Bill 2024.

Gillian, Rex’s mother, expressed her gratitude for the support of Kenyans and reflected on her son’s life. “I remember my first feeling breastfeeding you. You were my bundle of joy. I remember our first milestones. Rex, my first patient, you turned my finger into a thermometer. You taught me to be a teacher, lawyer, stepping in when you were hurt by anyone. Here you are, teaching me how to live without you. Rex, why?” she recalled tearfully.

“Rex, my love, here we are today. You left me with no last words, nothing, but only receiving a call, finding you lifeless. Sincerely, this is more than labor pains. May the Lord even teach me how to delete your number from my phone. I don’t know how to delete your number,” she said, bidding him a heartfelt goodbye.

His grandmother, Nana, urged Kenyans to pray for the family. “Rex was my first grandson. The Bible says God loves youth. I thank you, youths, and I am asking you to continue to fight for justice for all the children, those who died. God will give you power. You mothers, you have to stand for your children. Ask God to cover them with the blood of Jesus.”

Rex’s siblings, Alicia and Wesley, read their tributes, mourning his untimely death. His cousins also eulogized him, describing him as a soft-spoken man with big ambitions who took on a big brother role to many. They appreciated his mentorship and guidance.

“Rex has left our hearts so heavy. We used to idolize him because he was the eldest. We wanted to be associated with Rex through his poetry, his art,” said a cousin named Tevin Odour.

“He took a bullet for all of us. I pray that we keep on pushing for justice to be served. I want us all to uphold the name of Rex.”