Boniface Kariuki will be laid to rest on July 11, with burial preparations underway for the 22-year-old who died from a police gunshot injuries to the head. The young man was shot at close range and died 12 days later at the Kenyatta National Hospital.

Abel Kinyanjui, Kariuki’s grandfather, called his death a huge family loss, noting how he supported his parents and siblings. “The goats you see in this home were bought by him to give his mother a livelihood such that if she needed some money, she could sell a goat,” said Kinyanjui.

Only son

As the family’s only son and primary breadwinner, Kariuki’s death has left his siblings without crucial support. Beatrice Wairimu, a relative, described how he had planned to improve his parents’ living conditions.

“He was a hardworking man with determination to change the life of his family but now he is gone,” she said. “We are appealing for justice for our son because clearly he had not done anything wrong to prompt the police to shoot him.”

The family continues seeking answers about why their son was shot despite not participating in demonstrations. Though two officers were arrested and arraigned, they demand accountability from those responsible.

Murang’a Woman Rep Betty Maina and Maragua MP Mary Waithira visited the family at their Karirau village home in Kangema, calling for justice.  “The officers involved in the shooting have already been arraigned in court and we are hoping the Judiciary will expedite the case and have it concluded within the shortest time possible,” said Maina.

Rogue officers

She stressed that Kariuki posed no threat to the officers: “The officer just pulled the trigger and shot him in the head and he must be held accountable for his action.”

Kangema MP Peter Kihungi argued that rogue officers should face murder charges independently of the police force. He promised MPs would push for government compensation and help build the family a better house.

Similar calls for justice echoed during the recent burial of 19-year-old Stephen Mwangi, allegedly shot by police in Nairobi’s Kasarani area two weeks ago.

However, some residents have criticised government responses on social media, claiming a pattern where families of police shooting victims receive money to cover up incidents and prevent justice.

To support burial preparations, President William Ruto has donated Sh1 million to Kariuki’s family, though critics view this as an attempt to deny justice through financial compensation.