The family of Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a 22-year-old hawker who was shot in the head by police during anti-government protests in Nairobi, says he cannot survive without life support, as pressure mounts on authorities to ensure justice and accountability.

Kariuki was shot at close range by an anti-riot officer along Moi Avenue during the June 17 protests. He remains in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit, heavily dependent on machines to keep him alive.

Speaking on Monday after a medical briefing, family spokesperson Emily Wanjira painted a grim picture of Kariuki’s health.

“To be sincere, he can’t survive without life support. He cannot talk, he cannot see us,” she said.

Doctors recently carried out a second high-risk surgery lasting four hours to remove bullet fragments lodged in his skull.

Despite the delicate procedure, the family says some metal shards are still embedded, putting his recovery at serious risk.

He remains under 24-hour observation in the ICU.

The family revealed that his medical bill has surged to Sh2.3 million, up from an initial Sh1 million, due to the rising cost of his intensive care and ongoing treatment.

Kariuki, who was the family’s sole breadwinner, has left them in deep financial strain.

His shooting has sparked outrage and renewed scrutiny of how the police have handled recent protests.

Human rights groups have strongly condemned the security forces for using excessive force against demonstrators.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, through Central Region Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi, confirmed that two officers involved in the shooting have been charged and are currently in custody.

“I want to assure you that we are working closely with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and other relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served openly, fairly, and without compromise,” Ndanyi said.

Ndanyi made the remarks while leading a team of senior police officers to visit Kariuki’s family.

He acknowledged the pain the family has endured since the shooting. “We are part of the communities we serve, and when one of us is hurt, all of us are affected,” he added.

However, despite the pledges of justice, the family is still burdened by growing hospital costs, as calls grow louder for police reforms and accountability.

Civil society groups have demanded urgent action from the Interior Ministry and the National Police Service to address alleged abuses and restore public trust.