David Maraga, Kenya’s former Chief Justice, has sharply criticised the police for shooting a civilian during Tuesday’s anti-government demonstrations in Nairobi. The incident, caught on video and widely shared online, has reignited concerns over growing police aggression toward peaceful protesters.
Boniface Kariuki, a street vendor known for selling face masks around the central business district, was shot at close range by anti-riot officers. Witnesses say he was not armed and had not provoked police before the shooting.
“Boniface Kariuki was shot point-blank, cold, without a drop of humanity,” Maraga said in a statement posted on social media. “The regime deployed its rogue security operatives to terrorise Kenyans.”
The protest, part of a growing youth-led movement against rising costs of living and alleged government mismanagement, drew large crowds in the city centre. Tensions escalated after reports emerged of plainclothes men on motorbikes some wielding clubs attacking demonstrators. Videos show what appear to be coordinated actions between these groups and uniformed police.
Maraga said the violence had echoes of a past Kenya many hoped had been left behind.
“These are allegedly State-sponsored militias working hand in hand with official security forces. The scenes we are seeing on our streets are deeply disturbing,” he noted.
Boniface Kariuki was taken to hospital in critical condition. According to Dr Patrick Amoth, Director General for Health, he is currently undergoing surgery under the care of a neurosurgical team.
“The patient is in theatre,” Dr Amoth confirmed. “He has suffered serious injuries and will require intensive post-operative care.”
The former Chief Justice praised the young Kenyans who have taken to the streets in recent weeks, calling their efforts “courageous and commendable.”
“We celebrate the bravery and relentless pursuit of justice led by the youth,” Maraga said. “Your sacrifice, resilience, and creativity inspire us. We stand with you.”
The government has not issued an official statement on the shooting. However, human rights groups have called for a full investigation into the incident, as well as the conduct of police during the protests.
This is not the first time Kenyan police have faced accusations of using excessive force during public demonstrations. In recent years, watchdog groups such as Amnesty International and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) have documented several such cases, often with little accountability.
As Boniface fights for his life, public anger is building. Protesters have vowed to return to the streets, demanding not just reforms but justice.
