The family of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a hawker who was shot in the head during anti-police brutality protests in Nairobi on June 18, has confirmed that he is clinically brain dead and currently on life support.
Speaking to the media, family spokesperson Emily Wanjira said Kariuki's condition had deteriorated despite initial signs of slight improvement.
“The reality is that Boniface is confirmed to be brain dead. That is where and how far we are. When we got here, they told us that he is now brain-dead but there is still a pulse. They cannot turn off the life support machine because of legal issues,” Wanjira said.
She added that the mounting hospital bill has now surpassed Sh3 million, compounding the family’s distress.
“The hospital bill now is quite higher. We are at over 3 million shillings. We are praying and hoping for well-wishers,” she appealed.
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The family also expressed frustration over unfulfilled pledges of support.
“We, as the family of Boniface Mwangi, cry upon you. A lot of promises were given to us, but none has come through,” said Wanjira.
The family of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki who was shot by police during protests in Nairobi, says he is brain dead, though he still has a pulse.#WeekendAt1 @AshleyMazuri pic.twitter.com/Bi1ujiZsBp
— KTN News (@KTNNewsKE) June 29, 2025
Prior to the latest update, Kariuki had undergone several critical medical procedures, including a tracheostomy to assist with breathing and the insertion of a feeding tube in his abdomen.
At one point, doctors noted slight neurological responses, he reacted to sights, sounds, and pain, though he could not recognize anyone. However, those signs have since faded.
“He was responding to pain. Lakini juzi, tulikuwa tumeenda steps tatu mbele alafu tukarudi nne nyuma. He is not responding to anything,” Wanjira said.
In a grim revelation, doctors told the family that a fragment of the bullet remains lodged in Kariuki’s brain and cannot be removed without risking his life.
“The day before yesterday, the doctors went direct to the point and told us that there is a piece of the bullet left since it cannot be removed,” Wanjira shared.
Boniface Kariuki’s shooting has become one of the most harrowing symbols of the police response to the June 18 protests, which were held to decry excessive force by law enforcement.
The family is now appealing for both prayers and financial support as they brace for what lies ahead.