Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.

Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja has strongly condemned the police shooting of hawker Boniface Kariuki and called for full accountability from the officer responsible.

The incident occurred during the chaotic protests that rocked the city on Tuesday, June 17, leaving several people injured.

Demands for justice for blogger Albert Ojwang, who died while in police custody at the Central Station, sparked the protests.

Demonstrators also called for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, whose name has been repeatedly mentioned in connection with Ojwang’s death.

“The tragic shooting of Boniface Kariuki by a police officer is deeply troubling and unacceptable in a democratic society. I call on all the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, independent investigation and ensure the responsible officer is held fully accountable,” Sakaja said in a statement to the media.

While affirming Kenyans' constitutional right to peaceful protest, Sakaja condemned the violence, vandalism, and destruction that marred recent demonstrations in the city.

He denounced the involvement of 'hired goons brought in from outside Nairobi' to exploit last week's protests for criminal gain.

The UDA politician noted that Nairobi has already suffered losses estimated in the billions of shillings, with businesses shut down, jobs lost, and livelihoods destroyed.

“I strongly condemn the destruction of property and the injuring of people following the recent demonstrations in Nairobi City,” he stated, adding, “Let us not allow criminal elements to hijack our democratic space. Peaceful protest is a right, but it must not come at the cost of innocent lives or public order.”

Sakaja urged the National Police Service to act with both firmness and fairness in apprehending those responsible for acts of violence witnessed during the demos.

Addressing the youth, Sakaja cautioned against being misused by individuals or groups who manipulate lawful protests to advance illegal agendas.

“I urge all Kenyans, especially our young people, to reject violence and criminal behaviour. Do not allow yourselves to be misused,” he emphasised.

Moreover, he called on Kenyans to channel their grievances through the appropriate democratic institutions such as Parliament and the Judiciary, rather than resorting to violence.

“Let us uphold the Constitution. Let us protect life, property, and our shared future. Let us pursue peace and justice — without fear or favour," he concluded.

Cops who shot Boniface Kariuki interdicted

Meanwhile, the National Police Service (NPS) has interdicted two officers linked to the shooting of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki during protests in Nairobi.

The officers, identified as Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono, have been processed for further legal action.

NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga condemned the incident, terming it an unjustified act. He expressed regret on behalf of the service and extended sympathy to the victim and his family.

Source: TUKO.co.ke