Mask Vendor Shot During Kenya Protests Declared Brain Dead

Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a 29-year-old mask vendor who was shot during the nationwide protests on Tuesday, June 17, has been declared brain dead, according to a family statement released at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).

The tragic update comes nearly two weeks after Kariuki was critically injured during the anti-government demonstrations. His family revealed to the press on Sunday, June 29, that doctors had confirmed his brainstem had ceased functioning, meaning he is medically and legally considered dead, despite being kept on a ventilator.

“We were called by the hospital at 12:47 a.m. and informed that Boniface has been declared brain dead. His brainstem is no longer functioning,” said a family spokesperson.

The family disclosed that hospital bills have now exceeded Ksh 3 million, urging well-wishers and the public to assist in covering the medical expenses.

“We are praying, but we understand what brain death means. Boniface cannot recover. The financial burden is too much for us,” she added.

Kariuki’s father, Jonah Kariuki, confirmed that while his son’s heart continues to beat with the help of life-support machines, there is no brain activity. The young vendor was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at KNH immediately after the shooting incident.

A day after the protests, KNH CEO Dr. William Sigilai confirmed that Kariuki had undergone surgery to remove a bullet-like object from his skull. He was one of the victims injured in the violent crackdown by security officers during the June 17 demonstrations.

Call for Justice and Support

The Kariuki family is now appealing to Kenyans, civil rights groups, and humanitarian organizations to help them settle the overwhelming medical bills and to stand in solidarity with victims of police brutality in Kenya.

This case has reignited national outrage over the use of excessive force by police during protests and calls for accountability continue to mount.