Mother Speaks Out After Son Shot
Nairobi Family Demands Justice Amid Rising Tensions
In the heart of the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD), what began as a peaceful protest turned into a tragedy that has shaken the nation. Boniface Kariuki, a 24-year-old Kenyan citizen was fatally shot in a recent demonstration. As the nation reels his grieving mother has spoken out demanding answers and accountability.
“We just want the truth,” she pleaded in a press update held near their home in Nairobi. Her words echo the sentiments of countless Kenyans frustrated by the increasing instances of police brutality and unaddressed civilian deaths.
Who Was Boniface Kariuki?
Boniface Kariuki was defined by friends and family as determined, peace-loving and deeply passionate about social justice. He had participated in the Nairobi CBD protests to stand up for civil rights, unaware that the day would end in tragedy.
- Age: 24
- Occupation: University student and youth manager
- Location of Incident: Central Business District, Nairobi
His untimely death has become a focal point in a wider conversation about extreme force during Kenya’s public demonstrations.
The Instance: What Occurred in the Nairobi CBD?
According to observer reports and videos going on social media tensions escalated among protesters and police forces in the protest. Tear gas canisters were afire, and live ammunition was allegedly discharged by some officers.
Boniface was caught in the chaos and was apparently shot while attempting to flee the area. Although he was rushed to a close hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
Family’s Search for the Truth: A Mother’s Plea
Boniface’s mother, overcome with emotion, called on authorities to release CCTV footage and bodycam recordings, if available. She expressed deep dissatisfaction with the slow pace of the investigation and accused officials of withholding critical information.
“All we want is the truth. Was my son targeted? Was he mistaken for someone else? Why use live bullets on unarmed youth?” she questioned.
The family has filed a formal complaint and is working through human rights establishments to launch an independent inquiry into the protest shooting.
Also Read: Civilians Armed with Clubs Patrol Nairobi During Protest Anniversary
Kenya Reacts: Community Outcry and Increasing Tensions
The Nairobi CBD protest shooting has sparked outrage through Kenya. Thousands have in use to social media using hashtags like #JusticeForBoniface. Human rights groups have condemned the use of force, calling for a transparent protest shooting inquiry.
Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) released a statement urging the Dependent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to act swiftly, citing systemic issues in Kenya’s law enforcement response.
In the wake of the instance the Nairobi demonstration scene has seen an better police existence, sparking fears of more unrest.
A Larger Pattern: Protest Violence and Police Brutality in Kenya
Boniface’s case is not isolated. Over the past year, Kenya has witnessed a surge in protest related casualties, particularly in the capital and other urban centers.
Key Statistics (2024-2025):
- 17 civilians shot in protests across Kenya
- 9 confirmed deaths from protest violence Nairobi alone
- 4 ongoing investigations by IPOA into police-involved shootings
The trend has fueled calls for reform in the Kenya Police Service and the making of an independent civilian review board.
Government and Legal Response
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki acknowledged the incident but urged the public to allow law enforcement bodies to conduct their investigations.
“We understand the grief and pain, and we assure Kenyans that justice will be pursued,” he said during a televised address.
Despite these assurances critics argue that similar cases in the past have gone unresolved leading to skepticism from the community.
What Comes Next: Hope for Justice
Boniface’s family continues to hold vigils and participate in peaceful demonstrations. They are calling on:
- Parliament to initiate a inquiry into protest police shooting cases.
- IPOA to release interim findings of its investigation.
- Universal human rights bodies to monitor the case.
This tragedy has galvanized a movement around the demand for truth accountability and change.