Bridget Njoki Wainaina, a 12-year-old Class Seven pupil, was shot by a stray bullet while inside her family’s home on Monday at around 6:20pm during the SabaSaba protests. She later died from her injuries.
According to her mother Lucy, Bridget was at home when they heard a loud bang. The mother noticed blood on her hands and when she went to check where the blood was coming from, Bridget collapsed and that’s when the mother saw a bullet hole on her head. The mother called Bridget’s father and with help from the neighbors they took Bridget to St.Bridget hospital where the doctors did their best but she succumbed to the injury.
“Bridget was a good girl, well behaved and did well in school” said the tearful mother.
A Protest Turns Deadly
The Saba Saba protests named after the historic July 7th demonstrations of 1990 were marked by widespread unrest in several counties. This year’s protests, sparked by discontent over government policies and economic hardship, saw confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement.
In Ndumberi, residents say police fired live rounds to disperse crowds. It was during this chaos that Bridget was reportedly shot.
Her family, now gripped by grief, has been left with more questions than answers.
“She had dreams,” said her mother, holding back tears. We cannot believe she’s gone.”
Public Outcry and Demands for Justice
The incident has sparked public outrage, with calls for accountability and a full investigation into the police response during the protests. News of Bridget’s death quickly spread online, igniting a wave of anger across the country. Hashtags like #JusticeForBridget and #StopPoliceKillingsKE trended on Kenyan social media platforms Monday morning.
“Why is a child being killed in her own home by police meant to protect her?” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “This is beyond tragic it’s criminal.”
“Absolutely heartbreaking. A child shot inside her home. If this doesn’t shake the conscience of a nation, what will? Justice for Bridget Wainaina. This must not be swept under the rug. #JusticeForBridget #StopPoliceBrutality
“She was just a child, inside her own home. This should never happen,” Kenyans on X(Twitter) replied.
Police Yet to Respond
By Tuesday afternoon, authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the incidence.
A Community Grieves
Bridget’s family and neighbors are beyond heartbroken by her death.
In Kiriguini village, her death has left the community numb and deeply fearful.
Kenyans have called for justice and condemned the rising cases of police brutality in the country.
About the Author
