Boniface Kariuki: Family of Nairobi Mask Seller Announces He's Brain Dead

• The family of Boniface Kariuki has given a sad update about his health as he remains critical in the ICU
• Emily Wanjira urged the public to help with the mounting bill and shared ways through which Kenyans can support
• Kariuki's case, which happened during anti-police brutality protests, sparked outrage among Kenyans, who have since demanded accountability

Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.

The family of Boniface Kariuki, the hawker who was shot in the head by a rogue police officer during anti-police brutality protests in Nairobi, has confirmed that he is clinically brain dead.

Speaking to the media on Sunday, June 29, family spokesperson Emily Wanjira revealed that doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) have declared Kariuki brain dead, even though his vital organs are still functioning.

“Boniface is confirmed brain dead. We understand the gravity of that diagnosis. At this point, we are only waiting for the doctors to make the official pronouncement,” said Wanjira, visibly emotional.

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The heartbreaking news was delivered a few minutes past midnight, when the family received a call from the hospital confirming that Kariuki's brain cells were no longer functioning.

What is the hospital bill for Boniface Kariuki?

The family is calling on well-wishers to help, as they face a significant financial burden.

According to Wanjira, despite numerous promises of support, none have materialised, leaving the family struggling to meet the escalating medical costs.

They are now seeking urgent financial support to cover his medical bills, which have exceeded KSh 3 million.

For those willing to contribute, a medical paybill number has been set up: 7682551, with the account name being [Your Name].

The family remains hopeful that with the help of kind-hearted individuals, they can manage the mounting expenses during this incredibly challenging time.

Meanwhile, Kariuki is s in the hospital's ICU.

How did Kenyans react to Kariuki's shooting?

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Kariuki was among the many peaceful demonstrators caught in the violent crackdown that rocked Nairobi as citizens marched against police excesses.

He sustained a gunshot wound to the head, which left him in critical condition.

His case sparked public outrage, with calls for justice and accountability intensifying across the country.

Human rights groups have also condemned the incident and called for urgent police reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The family says they are now preparing for the worst and are demanding that those responsible be held accountable.

Can Kariuki survive without life support?

Meanwhile, days ago, Wanjira shared an update on the condition of the hawker. She revealed that Kariuki was set to undergo a third surgery, but doctors were waiting for his condition to stabilise before proceeding with the procedure.

According to medical reports, the hawker is still on life support, with his survival entirely dependent on the machines keeping him alive.

The doctors expressed that there is little improvement at this stage, and the family was advised to place their faith in hope as they await further developments.

Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.

Source: TUKO.co.ke