Popular televangelist Bishop Muthee Kiengei was overcome with emotion during a recent sermon after discovering that Boniface Kariuki, the hawker who was shot in the head during recent protests, was a member of his church.

Kiengei, who had dedicated his service to praying for the country amidst the ongoing unrest, broke down in tears as he reflected on the lives lost during the demonstrations.

In his words:

"We have buried so many. This week, I did not even know, but one of them who was killed was a member of JCM. I will bury the young man who was shot in the head on Friday. I did not know, he was our member from Maragua. He even had a membership card," Kiengei revealed tearfully.

The preacher admitted that the information came to light during the formation of the burial committee, adding:

"Hii kitu inaumiza... you never know how close these things can hit."

Kariuki’s death sparked nationwide outrage, particularly after video footage emerged showing that he was unarmed and selling masks to demonstrators when police opened fire.

The protesters had gathered to demand justice for slain blogger Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody.

Kariuki was declared brain dead following the shooting and succumbed to his injuries days later.

Watch the video below:

Here are some reactions from social media users:

"GOD have mercy upon our young ones n heal our country."

"Na Leo tena ni sabasaba."

"Pole Sana may he rest in peace."

"Wooiii 😭 pole kwa familia."

"Wuui aki ni ukweli inatuguza sisi wote."

"Poleni sana pamoja na familia."

"May God 🙏 restore our country."

"So long as the youths of this country purporting to call themselves Gen Z don't respect our law enforcement officers, prepare to bury more of them next week.we can't allow individuals using the youth of Kenya to destroy what we have built for over 60 years and trying to get power through the back door.burning police stations, people's properties and stoning our security officers is a big NO."

In another story, former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko extended a helping hand to Kariuki's family as they prepared for his burial.

Sonko committed to handling key expenses, including transportation, medical-related costs, a sleek hearse, and a white coffin.

He also dispatched his medical team to offer support during the burial.

As part of his contribution, he promised to buy a burial suit for Kariuki and sent KSh 150,000 to help with food expenses, boosting the family’s existing funds of KSh 100,000.

Source: TUKO.co.ke