Duncan Onsongo, a 26-year-old fruit vendor from Amabuko sub-Location in Kisii County, tragically lost his life while reportedly participating in youth-led street protests against President William Ruto’s administration in Mlolongo, Machakos County on July 2, 2024.

His family’s search for him ended at the City Mortuary in Nairobi, where they discovered his lifeless body with a burnt face and chest, believed to be caused by a teargas canister explosion.

Onsongo, the first-born in a family of 10 is described by his father, William Nyakundi as a straightforward person who was a skilled mechanic and driver.

According to his neighbors, they tried to persuade him against joining the protests, but he defied their counsel and left his house, saying he was going to witness how the protests were unfolding.

Once on the road, he was motivated and joined the huge crowd of protesters.

The deceased’s aunt Hellen Nyakerario said Duncan was the family’s breadwinner and appealed to well-wishers to help them transport his body to Kisii for burial.

“I have nothing. Duncan was my support system,” pleaded Ms Grace Kwamboka, the deceased’s mother amid sobs.

The area Ward Representative Wycliff Siocha demanded a comprehensive report from the government on what killed Duncan and demanded for justice.

“I am calling for justice for Duncan. His family has not been contacted by any authority, not even a condolence message.

“We cannot just be having a government that is collecting taxes with nothing in return for wananchi,” said Siocha.