A somber atmosphere prevailed as the community came together to mourn the loss of Erickson Kyalo Mutisya In the quiet village of Kisekini in Kathiani, Machakos County
Erickson, a 25-year-old, was tragically killed by police during the finance bill demonstrations in Nairobi on June 25, 2024. His death has not only left a deep void in his family but has also sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice across the country.
Erickson was buried on a Friday, and the funeral was attended by family members, friends, local leaders, and community members who came to pay their last respects.
The pain and sorrow were palpable as mourners reflected on the life of a young man taken too soon. Erickson was the second-born child of Johnstone Mutisya and Caroline Nduku Mutisya. He was remembered fondly by those who knew him as a loving, kind, and hardworking individual.
During the funeral service, Erickson's brother, James Munyao, delivered an emotional tribute that brought many to tears. He spoke warmly of the cherished moments they had shared and the deep bond they had.
"If I could write a story, it would be the greatest ever told of a kind and loving brother. You had a heart of gold. I could write a million pages, but there is one thing I would say: just know how much I love you and miss you," said Munyao, his voice trembling with emotion.
Erickson's parents, Johnstone and Caroline, were overcome with grief as they spoke about their son. They described him as a diligent and loving young man who had a bright future ahead of him.
They called for divine justice for his untimely death, echoing the sentiments of many who attended the funeral. The family’s heartbreak was evident, and their calls for justice resonated deeply with those present.
Among the mourners was Komrade Bush, the Attorney General of Bunge la Mwananchi, a grassroots movement advocating for the rights of ordinary Kenyans. In his address, Komrade Bush honored Erickson as a hero who died fighting for his rights.
He condemned what he termed as state-sponsored violence that led to Erickson's death and the deaths of 20 others during what was intended to be a peaceful protest.
"Eric died while exercising his sovereign right under Article 1 of the constitution, which is protected in Article 37.
At the time he was murdered in a state-sponsored massacre, Eric was peacefully demonstrating as a member of Bunge la Mwananchi," Komrade Bush stated emphatically.
He went on to demand the resignation of President William Ruto, calling for a government that upholds equity and dignity.
The tragic events surrounding Erickson's death have stirred significant political and social unrest. Many leaders and activists have criticized the government’s handling of the protests and the excessive use of force by the police.
Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu was among those who attended the funeral and voiced her sorrow and anger over the incident.
She criticized President Ruto for not addressing the demonstrators' grievances sooner and emphasized the urgent need for job creation and justice for the youth of Kenya.
"It is disheartening and painful to bury a child. We want to speak to President Ruto; it shouldn’t have taken the deaths of these young people and Gen Zs going to the streets for you to act. Mr. President, we still urge you to listen to them and deliver justice," Senator Kavindu said, her voice filled with frustration and determination.
The funeral was also a moment for Erickson's friends to come together and celebrate his life. Known for his jovial personality, Erickson was remembered for his ability to bring joy to those around him.
His friends sang and danced, expressing their hope that he was in a better place. Their tribute was a poignant reminder of the vibrant life that had been cut short.
The events leading up to Erickson’s death have highlighted the broader issues facing Kenya, particularly the challenges of governance, police brutality, and the struggle for socio-economic justice.
The finance bill protests were driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the government's economic policies, which many felt disproportionately affected the poor and vulnerable. The demonstrators were calling for fairer policies and better opportunities for the youth.
Erickson's death has become a symbol of the broader struggle for justice and accountability in Kenya. His family, along with many others, are demanding answers and calling for meaningful change.
The outpouring of grief and support from the community of Kisekini and beyond reflects the deep-seated desire for a more just and equitable society.
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