- University student leaders have called for the resignation of Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs.
- The demands follow the fatal shooting of youth leader Cecil Ouma during a youth empowerment programme in Nairobi.
- Police investigations are underway, with the PS saying he has recorded a statement and is cooperating with investigators.
University student leaders have demanded the resignation of Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs following the fatal shooting of youth leader Cecil Ouma during a youth empowerment programme in Kariokor, Nairobi County, on July 1.
According to reports, Ouma, a former student of the Technical University of Kenya (TUK), was allegedly shot by a member of the Principal Secretary’s security team after a disagreement during the event.
Witnesses claimed Ouma had been given KSh10,000 to share among about 60 youths but later approached the Principal Secretary seeking additional financial support after participants complained that the amount was insufficient.
University of Nairobi Students Association Secretary General Tonny Ochieng called for thorough investigations and urged the Government to ensure accountability.
“We are calling on the Government and the ministry at large to ensure that PS Fikirini Jacobs steps aside. The bodyguard should be arrested and held in custody to allow investigations to proceed without interference. We stand in solidarity with the family of Cecil and with our comrades from TUK. It is deeply painful that we have lost a young life under circumstances that remain unclear,” he said.
Ochieng also announced plans for continued demonstrations outside Talanta Plaza until the students’ demands are addressed.
“We will be marching to Talanta Plaza every day until Kenyans are told why a firearm had to be used. There are many ways of handling a situation before resorting to a gun. Those responsible must be held accountable,” he added.
Cooperating with investigators
Addressing the media on Thursday, July 2, Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs said he had recorded a statement with police and was fully cooperating with investigators.
He expressed condolences to Ouma’s family and said investigations into the incident were ongoing.
“Regarding the circumstances surrounding Cecil’s death, I believe no family should have to endure such a tragic loss. I believe no youth’s life should end the way Cecil’s did. As such, I have responded to an invitation by the investigative agency to record my statement. Already seven people, including two from my office, have been summoned and shared their side of the story,” the PS said.
According to preliminary post-mortem findings, Ouma sustained fatal gunshot injuries.
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Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting are continuing.
By Ochola Victor
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