Comedian-turned-activist Eric Omondi had made an emotional visit to the exact location in Nairobi where Boniface Kariuki, a street vendor known for selling protest masks, was fatally shot during Tuesday’s demonstrations against the killing of Albert Ojwang.
Omondi arrived at the site along Moi Avenue, just hours after comforting Boniface’s grieving family at their home.
He was accompanied by a small group of fellow activists and supporters, most of them clad in black to symbolize mourning.
The group silently walked to the scene, holding placards that read “Justice for Boniface” and “Protect, Don’t Kill.” Visibly shaken, Omondi knelt at the blood-stained pavement and placed a Kenyan flag and a black T-shirt bearing Kariuki’s name where the 27-year-old fell.
His voice cracked as he addressed the press moments later. “This is not just a place where Boniface died; this is where Kenya failed one of its own,” Omondi said. “He was not a threat; he was a young man trying to make a living.
He sold masks — masks, not weapons. And yet, he was gunned down like a criminal.” Boniface Kariuki was shot on Tuesday, June 18, during running battles between police and protesters demonstrating against the killing of a teacher and also an activist, Albert Ojwang.
Witnesses say he was caught in the chaos as police opened fire with live bullets to disperse crowds. A video that surfaced online shortly after shows Boniface lying on the sidewalk, with masks beside him.
Omondi, who has been vocal against the killing of the young souls who are demanding their rights, called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to expedite investigations and bring the responsible officers to justice.
He further urged President William Ruto to personally address the growing use of lethal force against unarmed citizens. “Today, I came not as a celebrity, not as a comedian, but as a father, a brother, and a Kenyan,” Omondi said.
“This place should remind us of the cost of silence. Boniface’s blood must not be spilled in vain.” He also vowed to launch a legal fund to support Boniface’s family and other victims of police violence.
Before leaving, Omondi joined the crowd in a moment of silence and prayer, tears rolling down his cheeks. As dusk approached, the symbolic gathering dispersed peacefully, leaving behind flowers, candles, and cardboard signs marking the spot.
The public mourning continues as Kenyans online and on the streets rally behind the call for accountability and justice.
by sheila chelangat
