Long and Painful walk towards Justice

Katewinslet Oyato 

Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a 22‑year‑old mask vendor shot in the head by a police officer on June 17, succumbed to his injuries Monday at Kenyatta National Hospital.

This is a day after being declared brain‑dead by medical professionals.

According to his family, doctors at KNH confirmed Sunday night that Kariuki’s brainstem had ceased functioning, though his heart was maintained via life support. 

On Monday, he passed away. Family spokesperson Emily Wanjira disclosed the ballooning hospital bills, now exceeding Sh 3 million, and appealed for financial assistance.  

The shooting occurred amid widespread Gen Z‑led demonstrations across Kenya demanding accountability for police violence. 

Two officers have been arrested in connection with Kariuki's shooting, and six individuals ,three police officers among them face charges related to Ojwang’s death.   

Kariuki’s death has intensified national outrage, amplifying calls for a full, transparent investigation and prosecution of those responsible. 

Amnesty International and other groups have highlighted this as among several fatal police actions during recent nationwide demonstrations during which at least 16 people were killed and hundreds injured.