An emotional farewell unfolded at the Kenyatta University Funeral Home as family and friends of Boniface Kariuki gathered to view his body before burial.

Boniface, a mask vendor, was fatally shot by a police officer during the June 17 protests in Nairobi, a death that left a deep scar on those who knew him.

Inside the funeral home, mourners stood in silence, huddled in groups, some waiting in line to see the body.

A few whispered to each other, while others stared ahead, their faces heavy with sorrow.

The weight of grief was visible in every corner of the room.

Boniface’s mother could not bear the pain. She collapsed to the ground in tears, crying uncontrollably as relatives and medical staff rushed to comfort her.

The scene drew tears from many, with some unable to watch and stepping outside to compose themselves.

Kenyan flags were held by a few mourners, raised not in celebration but as a quiet symbol of mourning and solidarity.

Around the white coffin, the sound of slow, solemn hymns filled the air. The voices of mourners rose and fell gently, paying tribute to a life lost too soon.

Some family members remained outside the viewing room, too overwhelmed to sing or speak. They sat quietly, wiping tears, surrounded by others offering comfort.

A few relatives fainted and were quickly assisted by the medical team on standby.

Support during the ceremony came from the Sonko Rescue Team, led by former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko.

The group offered a white coffin, a hearse, and covered several expenses tied to the funeral. Their help eased some of the pressure on the grieving family.

The pain was clear. The silence, the sobs, the hymns, each a reminder of the gap left behind. Boniface Kariuki will be laid to rest later today at his family home in Kangema, Murang’a County.