NAIROBI, Kenya — A security guard stationed at Kenya Power’s Stima Plaza headquarters in Nairobi was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon, during the widespread demonstrations marking the first anniversary of the Gen Z-led anti-Finance Bill protests.
Kenya Power officially confirmed the tragic incident, identifying the deceased as Fred Wamale Wanyonyi.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the company detailed that Mr. Wanyonyi, an employee of Hatari Security, was on duty at the Kolobot Road entrance of the premises when the shooting occurred at approximately 4:30 PM.
Kenya Power conveyed its profound sorrow regarding the incident, stating: “We are deeply saddened to report that Fred Wamale Wanyonyi, a security guard stationed at our Stima Plaza headquarters, was fatally shot at the entrance of the building.”
Wanyonyi was immediately rushed to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital for emergency medical attention but was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival.
The power utility company expressed its condolences and commitment to understanding the circumstances of the fatality: “We regret the unfortunate death of Mr. Wamale and are working with the relevant investigative organs to unearth the circumstances under which the incident occurred.”
They further conveyed: “Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.”
Kenya Power has pledged its full cooperation with authorities as investigations into the fatal shooting continue.
The incident unfolded amidst large-scale demonstrations across Nairobi, organized by young Kenyans primarily through online platforms.
These protests aimed to draw attention to pressing grievances, including concerns related to governance, pervasive youth unemployment, and incidents of police brutality.
Throughout the day, the city experienced significant service disruptions, extensive road closures, and a heavy deployment of police, particularly within and around the Central Business District, where law enforcement utilized barricades and force to manage protestor movements.
Wanyonyi’s death adds to a growing casualty count from the day’s events.
According to reports from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least eight people across the country lost their lives during the protests, with over 400 injuries recorded among demonstrators, police officers, and journalists.
