Here is what you need to know to keep up to speed with today’s happenings.

Mask vendor shooting

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is expected to provide an update on the investigation into the June 17, 2025, shooting of Boniface Kariuki, a face mask vendor, by a police officer during protests on Moi Avenue in Nairobi.

The incident, sparked by outrage over blogger Albert Ojwang’s death in custody, has fuelled demands for police accountability. Two officers, Constables Klinzy Barasa Masinde and Duncan Kiprono, are under investigation.

The officers are linked to the assault and shooting of Kariuki during protests in the Nairobi Central Business District on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

Milimani Principal Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi on June 19, 2025, directed that the two be held at the Capitol Hill Police Station pending investigations.

National Executive Retreat

The two-day National Executive Retreat, hosted by President William Ruto at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen, ends today. Focused on tackling Kenya’s economic challenges and unemployment, the retreat involved Cabinet and Principal Secretaries.

A press briefing this afternoon will outline key policy decisions to address the Ksh4.239 trillion 2025/2026 budget and a projected 4.8% fiscal deficit.

Protests and police reform discussions

As the anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests nears, tensions remain high following recent clashes in Nairobi over police brutality. Protests over police brutality are also expected.

Activists, including Okiya Omtatah, are pushing for accountability after the shooting of Boniface Kariuki and the death of Albert Ojwang in custody.

Kenya National Hospital (KNH) on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, reported that it received 16 victims from the chaos.

“In total, 16 patients were received at Kenyatta National Hospital as a result of the protest-related unrest,” KNH Acting CEO William Sigilai said.