By Kennedy Oketch (Freelance Journalist)
In the face of growing unrest in Kenya, a heart-wrenching story has emerged, shedding light on the
personal toll of political instability. As Gen Z activists took to the streets in mid this year to demand
change through peaceful protests, a more sinister undercurrent gripped the nation. Amid the
demonstrations, rogue officers and armed gangs unleashed violence, victimizing ordinary citizens and
government officials alike.

In the aftermath of the demonstrations, significant damage and losses were incurred, including the
tragic loss of innocent lives. Sixteen individuals were charged in an Eldoret court for breaking into
the Timba XO club, which is associated with Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, where they proceeded to steal and
consume alcohol. Many business owners suffered millions in losses, but the most heartbreaking aspect
remains the innocent victims whose lives were either taken or irrevocably disrupted.
One such victim is Winnierose Wangui, a diligent public servant from Laikipia County. Renowned for her
dedication to community development, infrastructure projects, and the empowerment of rural voices,
Wangui’s commitment to progress was met with unexpected peril. What began as a wave of peaceful
protests spiraled into chaos, endangering those who, like Wangui, worked tirelessly to serve their
communities.
Although the constitution protects the right to peaceful protest, a deep-seated mistrust of government
employees has painted them as enemies in the eyes of some demonstrators. For officials like Wangui,
this mischaracterization turned into a dangerous reality. Despite her alignment with calls for peaceful
change, she found herself unfairly branded as an obstacle to progress—an association that brought
threats, violence, and life-altering consequences.
The attacks on Wangui began subtly, with menacing text messages, but they soon escalated to physical
violence and the destruction of her property. Her once peaceful home became a battlefield, forcing her
to flee for her safety. Ultimately, the danger proved insurmountable, and she made the agonizing
decision to leave her homeland to unknown destination. Her plight mirrors that of many other
government employees who have been targeted during this period of unrest—some were attacked,
others killed, and countless families left shattered.
For people like Wangui, the experience has left an indelible mark. As they begin the difficult process of
rebuilding their lives, the trauma of the events remains a heavy burden. The scars, both physical and
emotional, serve as a haunting reminder of the human cost of political turbulence.
While some argue that such upheavals are an unavoidable step toward societal reform, Wangui’s story
underscores the urgent need for a balanced approach to activism—one that prioritizes safety for all,
including those working within the system to effect change. Her journey stands as a poignant testament
to the price paid by individuals caught in the crossfire of a nation’s struggle for transformation.
When we compose songs for heroes likes Rex and many like him for their valour and their unrelenting
commitment to the course to point of their death, we must also consider Winnierose Wangui’s
resilience amid unimaginable adversity as a stark reminder of the sacrifices borne by ordinary citizens
and public servants during times of upheaval. Her voice joins countless others calling for peaceful and

inclusive solutions to Kenya’s challenges, emphasizing the need for dialogue and understanding over
division and violence.