Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka Speaking during a graduation ceremony for 1,000 youth beneficiaries of the county’s empowerment initiative in Machakos on November 4, 2025. Photo by Andrew Mbuva 
By Andrew Mbuva and Ryan Mumo
Former Vice President and Wiper Party leader Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has proposed that the Machakos youth empowerment programme be renamed in honor of the late Rex Kanyike Masai, the 29-year-old protester who was fatally shot during nationwide demonstrations against the Finance Bill in June 2024.
Speaking during a graduation ceremony for 1,000 youth beneficiaries of the county’s empowerment initiative, Kalonzo described Rex Masai as a symbol of Kenya’s ongoing struggle for justice, accountability, and youth inclusion.
“Let Rex never be forgotten by Machakos, by Kenya, and by the world,” Kalonzo said. “May I suggest that in honour of Rex Masai and the fallen Gen Zs whose sacrifices changed Kenya forever and inspired change worldwide, that you rename this inspirational project — the Rex Masai Empowerment Programme.”
The speech, delivered before Machakos Governor and several county leaders, underscored youth empowerment as the “heartbeat” of devolution — a constitutional tool that Kalonzo believes has begun transforming lives, especially among Kenya’s younger generations.
“Devolution is not just about building roads or markets; it is about building people,” he declared, highlighting the Machakos programme as a shining example of how county-based initiatives can equip youth with technical skills, enhance livelihoods, and promote community-driven development.
The 21-day boot camp and subsequent training enrolled young people from across the county in diverse technical courses, preparing them to champion innovation and economic growth beyond the county borders. Kalonzo hailed this empowerment model as a template for other counties.
He issued a rallying call to the youth, urging them to embrace their new roles as leaders of today, not tomorrow.
“You are not the future anymore. You are the now," he said, adding that the biggest measure of empowerment is how much one gives back to the community.
Linking youth welfare to broader governance reforms, Kalonzo reiterated that Kenya’s prosperity would only be achieved if devolution is strengthened and county governments fully supported to deliver.
“When every county becomes a centre of innovation, agriculture, entrepreneurship, and creativity, Kenya will rise — united, prosperous, and just,” he asserted.
Reacting to his speech, many attendees praised Kalonzo’s recommendation to rename the programme after Rex Masai, viewing it as a fitting tribute that would immortalize the young man’s pursuit of justice.
As Machakos County continues positioning itself as a leader in grassroots empowerment, Kalonzo’s renewed call for stronger devolution and youth recognition has reignited national conversations on equity, governance, and the enduring power of the youth voice.
“Machakos believes in you. Kenya believes in you. And I, Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, believe in you,” he concluded, to thunderous applause.
