What began as a peaceful protest over another case of police brutality ended in silence, blood, and unbearable loss for the family of Boniface Kariuki. The 22-year-old, who sold face masks to make a living in downtown Nairobi, died after being shot in the head during demonstrations on June 17.

He succumbed to his injuries two weeks later, turning his story from one of hope to heartbreak.

Yesterday, mourners gathered at All Saints Cathedral for Kariuki’s memorial service, a moment heavy with grief and unrelenting cries for justice. Many who came to honour him did so with tears in their eyes and fists clenched in frustration over unchecked police violence.

“He was our brother, our son,” said his cousin Emily Wanjira during a press briefing after the service. “He was shot and we watched him suffer. We are still praying, still trying to raise funds for his burial. But what we want most is justice. No intervention. Let this case follow the law.”

The family later lit candles at the exact spot near Imenti House where Kariuki was gunned down. His burial is set for Friday in Kangema.

Starehe MP Amos Mwago condemned the government’s role in the violence that has marked the nationwide protests.

“The blood of Kenya’s youth is on this administration. These demonstrations started peacefully but then the government unleashed goons to provoke violence. We will not be silenced. The responsibility lies squarely on the president,” he said.

Activist and comedian Eric Omondi, whose voice has become louder amid rising deaths, could not hide his pain.

“I wanted to be a police officer. But what has the uniform become? It is no longer pride but it is rather fear. I have buried eight people in one month. Thirty-nine Kenyans are dead. This must stop,” he said.

The memorial brought together a cross-section of Kenyans — from friends and clergy to fellow activists — all united by one thing: a demand for justice and accountability.

Two officers linked to Kariuki’s shooting have been arrested and are facing murder charges. It is a rare development that has sparked a small measure of hope in the ongoing fight against police excesses.

Kariuki’s death is part of a disturbing pattern. At least 19 people were killed and more than 400 injured during the June 17 protests, most of them hit by live bullets. The demonstrations had been sparked by the killing of a teacher, Albert Ojwang, while in police custody.

But yesterday’s event was more than a memorial — it was a rallying cry. Young protesters who attended spoke of rising courage, a new unity, and a deep refusal to be silenced.
“No more fear. No more blood. Justice for Boniface,” they declared.

In Kariuki’s memory, they lit candles. In his name, they vowed to keep speaking out.