Kenyan Street Vendor Declared Brain Dead After Protest Shooting
Excerpt: Kenyan street vendor shot during protests has been declared brain dead, his family confirmed while awaiting final word from doctors.
A 22-year-old street vendor who was shot in the head during a protest in Nairobi two weeks ago has been declared brain dead, sparking fresh outrage over police brutality in Kenya.
Boniface Kariuki, who sold face masks on the streets of the capital, was hit by a police bullet on June 17 during a protest against the death in custody of blogger and teacher, Albert Ojwang, 31. His family says doctors have confirmed that his brain has ceased to function, although his heart continues to beat with the aid of life-support machines.
“We know what it means. We are just waiting for the doctor to tell us he is no more,” said family spokesperson Emily Wanjira, speaking to journalists outside the Kenyatta National Hospital.
Kariuki’s condition has drawn national attention, with many Kenyans demanding justice and accountability. Doctors have conducted multiple operations, but some bullet fragments reportedly remain lodged in his brain.
The young vendor’s fate has intensified public fury over what rights groups say is a growing pattern of police violence and excessive force. Social media platforms have seen a surge in calls for justice, with the hashtags #JusticeForBonifaceand #StopPoliceBrutality trending nationwide.
The family has also appealed to the government for help with medical expenses, as hospital bills continue to mount. “We didn’t ask for this. Boniface was just working, trying to earn a living,” Wanjira added.
Two police officers linked to the shooting have appeared in court but are yet to take a plea. They remain in custody as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and opposition leaders have renewed their calls for sweeping police reform. “Boniface’s story is not isolated,” said activist Samuel Obunde. “Too many young people are caught in the crosshairs of a system that views citizens as enemies.”
As Kenya grapples with mounting cases of alleged abuse by law enforcement, Kariuki’s case has become a powerful symbol in the fight for accountability and justice.
Chioma Kalu
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