UDA Governor Pledges Support for Boniface Kariuki’s Family After His Death

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has pledged continued support for the family of Boniface Kariuki, the hawker who was fatally shot by a police officer in Nairobi CBD.

In a statement on Tuesday, July 1, Kang’ata expressed sorrow over the death of Kariuki who succumbed to injuries sustained in the shooting while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.

“On behalf of the residents of Murang'a County, the Murang'a County Government conveys its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Boniface Kariuki.

“Boniface, a humble and unarmed hawker, was tragically shot by police officers in Nairobi's Central Business District a few days ago. He had been receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital, where we hoped for his recovery. Sadly, he has since passed away,” he said.

Kang’ata confirmed that the county government had already offered assistance to Kariuki during his hospitalization and assured the public that the support would continue for his family during this period of mourning.

“The Murang'a County Government had extended support to Boniface during his hospitalization and will continue to stand with his family during this difficult time,” he added.

Kang'ata also issued a strong condemnation of the police's conduct, calling for justice in the wake of Kariuki’s death.

“We strongly condemn the excessive use of force by the police and demand justice for Boniface and his loved ones,” he stated.

Kariuki was confirmed dead on Monday afternoon, June 30, a day after the family confirmed that the vendor had been declared brain dead.

"The reality of things is that Boniface Mwangi Kariuki is declared brain-dead. The hospital bill is now higher than Ksh3 million.

"We are praying and hoping for the well-wishers because when someone is declared brain dead, we know what it means, so the brainstem of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki is not working any longer,” the family announced on Sunday.

On Monday, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed that Kariuki's bill will be fully settled as well as other victims of the June 17 and 25 protests.

"As a result, I have directed the management of Kenyatta National Hospital to waive all medical bills for patients injured during the protests and charge them to the hospital's Disaster Emergency Fund.

"This includes the outstanding bill of the late Mr. Boniface Kariuki, which stood at Ksh815,805 at the time of his passing,” he said.