Hundreds of youths took to the streets of Nakuru to join the anti-government protests. Some were there for the thrill of running battles with police officers, while the majority were out chanting at the top of their lungs about the high cost of living.

Many of those who took to the streets to protest made it home in the evening, but Wednesday July 19 was the last time 32-year-old Benjamin Imbi, alias Hussein Machozi, saw the light of day.

According to protesters protesting around Mazembe, Imbi was allegedly shot in the eye by a policeman and left for dead on the road.

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In an interview with Mtaa Wangu, Imbi's older brother Christopher Heman, says he went to see his body at Nakuru City mortuary, and confirms he has a bullet wound in his right eye.

"I was informed by a neighbour that my brother's lifeless body was lying at Stima Line compound after being shot by the police. I could not believe it until I made a few calls to people who knew him around the centre and they confirmed to me that he was dead," Mr Heman said.

Heman says he was not sure if Imbi was among the protesters, revealing that he was a Boda Boda operator around the stage where he was shot.

"He could have been part of the protest or a case of someone caught in the fight between police and protesters while working. Why he was shot is still a mystery to us as a family," he said.

Elizabeth Andami, the deceased's sister, said Imbi had been the family's breadwinner since they lost their parents.

In addition, his brother now leaves behind two children, a son with whom he lived with and a daughter who lives with his wife after they separated.

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She described her brother as a hardworking man who wanted to improve the lives of those close to him.

"Even though he had a family of his own, he made sure we never lacked for anything. He would stop by my house from time to time to check on us and share what little he had with us," Ms Andami said.

Where Imbi lived in Mwisho Wa Lami, Nakuru Town West, a padlock remains on his door. Neighbours say he left for work in the morning as usual, only to receive the sad news that he had passed away.

Steve Murunga, a close friend and neighbour of Imbi's, says his heart aches at his loss. What remains of their friendship now are the great memories they have shared since 2012 when he met Imbi at a construction site.

During our interview, Mr Murunga is deep in thought as he scrolls through his phone gallery, looking at photos they took together last week. He says Imbi was a cheerful and outgoing person who was loved by many.

"We supported each other from the moment we met, he would usually take me with him whenever there was work to be done. Imbi was never picky about jobs, he was always trying to provide for his family. All we want is justice," Mr Murunga said.

The family of the deceased is now seeking support to give their loved ones a proper send-off.

"The damage has already been done and we cannot undo the unfortunate event that has befallen our family. All we want is to take his body home and give him a proper send-off. We appeal to well-wishers to come and support us," Mr Heman said.

Wanjirukinuthia20@gmail.com

Exclusive: Family of man shot dead during anti-government protests speaks out

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