As the nation marked the anniversary of the deadly June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests, fresh tragedy struck Fred Wamale Wanyonyi, a dedicated security guard stationed at Kenya Power Stima Plaza in Nairobi, was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon as the nation commemorated the June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests — a day meant to honor lives lost, now marked by yet another.
Wanyonyi, an employee of Hatari Security, was on duty at the Kolobot Road entrance when the shooting occurred at approximately 4:30 pm. He was quickly rushed to Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival.
In a statement confirming the incident, Kenya Power expressed deep sorrow and pledged full cooperation with authorities:
“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 during today’s protests,” the company said.
“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.”
The tragedy unfolded amid nationwide demonstrations that once again turned violent, despite being billed as peaceful by organizers, mostly youth advocating for government accountability, economic dignity, and justice for victims of police brutality.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), eight lives were lost during the protests, and over 400 injuries were recorded — a grim echo of last year’s unrest.
As Wanyonyi’s family mourns a father, colleague, and friend, Kenya is left to reckon with the continued cost of ignoring cries for change, a cost paid not just by protestors, but by working Kenyans simply doing their jobs.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time,” Kenya Power added.
A Nation Bleeds Again
The incident unfolded against the backdrop of renewed, youth-led protests that brought cities across Kenya to a standstill, calling for economic justice, police accountability, and political reform. What began as a digital movement has turned into a generational reckoning.
Despite widespread calls for peaceful demonstration, the protests were once again marred by police violence, chaos, and bloodshed.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least eight people were confirmed dead on June 25, 2025, with over 400 others injured, including demonstrators, police officers, and journalists.
“Eighty-three of the injured have been referred for specialized treatment, eight with gunshot wounds,” KNCHR said.
Justice Demanded For Kenya Power Staff
As investigations continue, questions mount: Who shot Fred Wamale? Was he a target or a casualty of uncontrolled force? What is the cost of democracy when the innocent are caught in the crossfire?
Kenya Power has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement, stating:
“We are working with relevant investigative agencies to establish the truth and ensure justice for Mr. Wamale.”
As Kenya mourns yet another life lost amid political unrest, Wamale’s death is more than a statistic — it is a sobering reminder that the cost of ignoring the voices of a restless generation is being paid by the quiet, the working, and the innocent.
