Murang’a County Government has sent a message of condolence following the death of Boniface Kariuki, a hawker who succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained during the June 17 protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Kariuki was shot by police officers dispersing demonstrators during protests over the killing of blogger and activist Albert Ojwang.
In a statement, the county described Kariuki as a “humble and unarmed trader” whose life was cut short by what it termed excessive use of force by law enforcement.
“Boniface, a humble and unarmed hawker, was tragically shot by police officers in Nairobi. He had been receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital, where we hoped for his recovery, but sadly, he has since passed away,” the statement read in part.
The county government said it had supported Kariuki and his family during his hospitalisation and pledged continued assistance during the mourning period.
“We strongly condemn the excessive use of force by the police and demand justice for Boniface Kariuki and his loved ones,” the statement added, urging authorities to take immediate action against those responsible.
Murang’a leaders and civil society groups have vowed to keep pushing for accountability, warning that silence on such incidents risks normalising the unlawful targeting of vulnerable citizens.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, but witnesses claim Kariuki was conducting his business when police moved in to evict hawkers from the CBD, triggering chaos.
Kariuki, who sold masks, was reportedly caught in the melee and shot while trying to flee.
He was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital and admitted to the ICU, but succumbed to his injuries on July 1, 2025.
His death has sparked renewed outrage over police brutality, with human rights groups demanding a thorough and independent investigation.
