Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, Hawker Shot During Nairobi Protests, Has Died

Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a Nairobi hawker who was critically injured after being shot at close range during the anti-government protests on June 17, has been confirmed dead. The 29-year-old passed away at 3:15 p.m. today at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where he had been on life support for two weeks.

Kariuki sustained a gunshot wound to the head during demonstrations in the Nairobi Central Business District. After undergoing emergency surgery to remove a bullet-like object from his brain, he was declared brain dead earlier this week.

Despite ongoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), his condition remained critical. His family had appealed to the public for financial support as medical bills surpassed Ksh 3 million.

Rising Calls for Justice After Kariuki’s Death

The death of Boniface Kariuki has intensified public outcry over the excessive use of force by police during recent protests in Kenya. Human rights organizations and civil society groups are calling for a full investigation into the shooting and other cases of protest-related violence.

Kariuki’s death adds to the growing list of casualties from the ongoing demonstrations, which have been driven by concerns over economic hardships, constitutional reforms, and alleged police brutality.

Funeral Plans and Public Mourning

The family is expected to announce funeral arrangements soon. Activists are planning a public vigil in Nairobi to honor his memory and to call for justice for all victims of protest violence.