Kenyan Vendor Shot By Police During Protests D!es After Life Support Is Switched Off

A young Kenyan street vendor, 22-year-old Boniface Kariuki, has passed away after nearly two weeks on life support.

His family confirmed his death just one day after medical professionals declared him brain dead.

“Boniface is no more. We have just viewed his body,” family spokeswoman Emily Wanjira told the BBC on Monday. The family is anticipated to release a formal statement regarding his passing later today.

Kariuki was shot in the head at close range on 17 June while vending masks on Nairobi’s streets. Police were suppressing protesters demonstrating against the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody at age 31.

After the shooting, Kariuki was urgently taken to Nairobi’s primary public hospital, where he underwent multiple surgeries. However, some bullet fragments reportedly remained embedded in his brain. Despite medical efforts, he never regained consciousness. His family was later informed that, although his heart continued beating, there was no brain activity.

The news of Kariuki’s brain death fueled even greater public anger over police brutality, with many demanding accountability and justice. Kenyans also urged the government to cover his medical expenses after his family was compelled to seek public donations.

Two police officers have already faced court proceedings over Kariuki’s shooting. They have not yet been required to enter pleas and remain detained as investigations proceed.

Meanwhile, Kenya’s police continue to face criticism over a series of aggressive crackdowns. Just last Wednesday, at least 19 people were killed during anti-government protests across the nation, according to Kenya’s state-funded human rights body.

Kenya’s Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the police, controversially labeling the protests as “terrorism disguised as dissent” and urging officers to “shoot on sight” anyone attacking police stations—statements that have drawn strong condemnation from human rights groups and lawyers.

The unrest initially intensified following the death of blogger Albert Ojwang. An autopsy revealed he died from assault injuries sustained in police custody. Six individuals, including three police officers, have been charged with his murder.

The case has already prompted Kenya’s deputy police chief Eliud Lagat to step aside, though many Kenyans continue to demand his complete resignation. Lagat, who had accused Ojwang of defaming him on social media, denies any wrongdoing.

In a separate incident on Monday, Kenya’s High Court ordered Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja to produce missing blogger Ndiangui Kinyagia within 24 hours or appear in court himself to explain the blogger’s whereabouts. Kinyagia was reportedly detained by security officers last week and has not been seen since.

As Boniface Kariuki’s family grieves, they have renewed their demand for a thorough investigation into his killing and for justice to be delivered promptly. His death now serves as another poignant symbol of the struggle against alleged police violence in Kenya.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli