The father of Boniface Mwangi, the 22-year-old hawker who was shot in the head during a protest in Nairobi, has confirmed that his son is alive and currently receiving treatment in the ICU — bringing a mix of relief and continued calls for justice.
Highlights:
- Boniface Mwangi was shot in the head by a police officer during protests
- His father, Jonah Kariuki, confirms he is alive and in ICU
- The officer responsible has reportedly been arrested
Main Story:
Boniface Mwangi, a 22-year-old hawker who was shot in the head by a police officer in Nairobi, is alive and receiving critical care. His father, Jonah Kariuki, confirmed his son’s condition after visiting him at Kenyatta National Hospital, where Boniface is admitted in the intensive care unit.
According to Kariuki, Boniface was simply selling face masks along Moi Avenue when chaos erupted during protests over the death of another young man, Albert Ojwang. In the midst of the demonstrations, an anti-riot officer allegedly shot Boniface at close range.
The incident has sparked national outrage, with many Kenyans calling out the escalating police brutality. In response to public pressure, authorities confirmed that the officer involved in the shooting has been arrested and investigations are underway.
Speaking to the press, Kariuki expressed a mix of anguish and hope, grateful that his son survived but disturbed by the use of excessive force. “Why would police shoot an innocent hawker?” he asked, appealing to Kenyans for prayers and urging accountability from those in uniform.
Senator Okiya Omtatah, who visited the hospital, confirmed Boniface’s survival, although he was denied access to the ICU. The senator added his voice to growing demands for police reform and justice for victims of state violence.
As Boniface fights for his life, his father’s voice echoes a nation’s plea — for justice, for restraint, and for a future where no young Kenyan is gunned down while simply trying to make a living.
