Tension as Kisumu youth demand justice after man’s brutal murder

Tension is mounting in Kisumu following the killing of Trune Onyango, a young man whose death two weeks ago has ignited protests and renewed calls for justice in the lakeside city.

On Tuesday, the youth demanded swift intervention and accountability from security agencies.

The demonstrators blamed the police for what they claimed was a delay in pursuing suspects believed to be linked to a local boda boda group.

“Mr President, these are the same young people who stood by you during the Gen Z protests. Now they are being targeted and killed,” said Sarah Opiyo, a women’s leader at the rally.

 She described Trune’s death as terrifying, done in inhumane manner and warned that fear was spreading among the youth.

Youth leader Jefferson Oyuko condemned the security agencies for what he termed as total inaction. 

“We are devastated and angry. We have heard promises before, but nothing has changed. We demand arrests and justice for Trune’s family. We don’t want to be pushed into taking matters into our own hands,” he said.

The protests, which escalated in some parts of Kisumu, resulted in sporadic confrontations, injuries, and property damage. 

However, participants vowed to continue pressing for justice despite the risks.

Community leader George Okeyo suggested that political interference could be undermining justice.

 “Some politicians are trying to silence us for standing with the President. But what we need now is protection, not intimidation,” he said.

In addition to justice for Trune, protesters called for the removal of officers who have served in the area for long periods, arguing that their continued presence has compromised accountability.

As Kisumu remains on edge, residents insist they will not relent until those behind the killing are held to account and such a thing is not witnessed again.