Nairobi, Kenya – Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a 28-year-old mask vendor who was shot by police during the June 17 anti-government protests, has been declared brain dead by doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
Speaking to the press on Sunday, family spokesperson Emily Wanjira said that medics at the Kenyatta National Hospital confirmed that Mwangi’s organs are still functioning but his brain is dead.
“The reality of things is that Boniface Mwangi Kariuki is declared brain dead. The hospital bill is now higher than KSh 3 million. We are praying and hoping for well-wishers because when someone is declared brain dead, we know what it means,” said Jonah.
Medically, brain dead means there is no brain activity, including in the brainstem, which controls vital functions like breathing. Though Boniface’s heart is still beating, it is being maintained by a ventilator.
The Kariuki family, struggling under the weight of growing hospital bills, has appealed for financial support from well-wishers, civil society, and the government. They have not yet made a final decision on when to withdraw life support.
Boniface was among the victims of the violent crackdown by security forces during Gen Z-led protests in Nairobi. The June 17 demonstrations, sparked by frustrations over the Finance Bill 2025 and police brutality, saw widespread unrest and multiple injuries across the city.
Human rights organizations have condemned the excessive use of force by police, calling for independent investigations into Boniface’s shooting and several other reported cases of extrajudicial violence.
