The family of 22-year-old Derrick Peter Machanje, a student at Sigalagala National Polytechnic, is mourning his untimely death after he was fatally shot during Monday’s protests against rising fuel prices.
Led by his mother, Rodah Wairimo Shakira, the family described Derrick as their “only hope.” He balanced his studies with work as a tuk-tuk driver, using his earnings to pay his own school fees and support his mother and younger brother.
“I was called and told that my son had been shot; I did not believe that he was no more,” Wairimo said tearfully. She revealed that Derrick’s father abandoned the family years ago, leaving her to raise the children alone. “Sina shamba, ata sijui atazikwa wapi… my son is gone forever,” she lamented, noting that the family has no land to bury him.
Family and Community Reactions
Derrick’s grandmother, Mary Atieno, who has cared for the boys since their father disappeared, said she was devastated when she received the news. “I was sick and tried my best to reach where my grandson was, but later I was directed to Kakamega Mortuary, where I found him already dead,” she recounted.
Friends and fellow students described Derrick as hardworking, humble, and determined to lift his family out of poverty. Joseph, a close friend, said, “He was like my brother. When I received the news, I was sick, and now my sickness has increased. I am unable to accept the death of Derrick.”
Shirleyn Wanga, a fellow student, added: “I lost a great friend; we grew together, and suddenly his life was cut short by a bullet. Let him rest in peace.”
A social worker, Selphine Indasi, who knew Derrick from his time at Victoria’s Children’s Home, remembered him as a bright and disciplined boy. She expressed concern over the circumstances of his death, alleging that he was shot in the head and that the incident was hastily concealed.
Call for Justice
The family is now appealing to authorities for justice and assistance with burial arrangements. “Hatuna ata pa kumzika; tunaomba haki. We have reported to IPOA, and we are waiting for the arrest of the shooter,” said Mary Atieno.
Community members and students have joined the family in demanding accountability, describing the act as inhuman and calling for swift government intervention.