Josphine Masai mother to Garson Mutisya. Photo Andrew Mbuva 
By Andrew Mbuva
Heartbreak and outrage continue to grip Emali Town in Makueni County after two young men were fatally shot by police during Wednesday’s Gen Z protests. One of the victims, 33-year-old Garson Mutisya, was gunned down in broad daylight under circumstances that his family describes as cold-blooded and unjustified.
His mother, Josephine Masai, shared her painful experience when she attempted to report the killing at the local police station.
“When I went to the police, I met the OCS and told him I had an issue. He asked if I had been assaulted. I said no. I told him my son had been shot dead by the police. He told me that was nonsense and ordered me out of his office. I ran out, fearing they might shoot me too. I went back home and sat, wondering where to begin, having been chased away from the very place I thought would help me,” she recounted, her voice shaking.
Garson’s sister, Faith Mutindi, says the news of her brother's death came as a devastating shock.
“My mum called and told me the police had shot Garson. I couldn’t believe it then, and I still can’t. What hurts the most is that when we try to seek help, we are being turned away. Where do you want us to go?”
The family is now demanding justice and accountability, insisting the identity of the officer involved is known within the community.
“The officer who shot him is known to us and works right here in Emali,” said Robin Musyoki, a relative. “We were shocked when the OCS dismissed the mother. As a family, we have lodged a complaint with IPOA and also reached out to Senator Daniel Maanzo. We are told the matter is under investigation.”
An eyewitness who requested anonymity gave a harrowing account of the moment Garson was killed.
“Garson was on a motorbike with a friend. When they reached near Dubai Shop, they saw police officers. He jumped off and tried to hide. One officer—brown-skinned, big-bodied, wearing a pink T-shirt and a blue mask—cocked his gun and shot him. They then left in a black Subaru. People started shouting, ‘mumemuua!’ (you’ve killed him!)”
The other young man shot and killed during the protests was 23-year-old Peter Makau.
Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo has so far condemned the incidence saying that the use of live bullets to disperse demonstrators was totally unacceptable.
“I wish to take this opportunity to offer my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, and to wish speedy recovery to those admitted to hospital with injuries. I strongly condemn the use of live bullets to disperse demonstrators. The killing of protestors has no place in a modern Kenya”, read the Governor's statement.
Ends…
