Kenyan rapper and activist Henry Ohanga, popularly known as Octopizzo, has become the latest high-profile figure to demand justice and accountability following the shooting of Boniface Kariuki, a 22-year-old vendor who was hit in the head by police during last week’s protests in Nairobi.
June 25 protest in nairobi.
The demonstrations, which were part of the growing #JusticeForOjwang movement, erupted after the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody. Thousands of young Kenyans flooded the streets in protest — but as calls for reform grew louder, so did the state’s crackdown.
Kariuki, who was simply selling face masks near Moi Avenue, became an innocent victim of that violence. Rushed to a private clinic before being referred to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), his condition remains unclear — prompting Octopizzo to speak out.
In a powerful post on X (formerly Twitter) on June 26, Octopizzo wrote:
“What is the status of Boniface Kariuki? We cannot stay silent. We must demand answers now. Justice must be served, not just for his family, but for every young Kenyan who dares to speak truth to power.”
This is not the first time the renowned Kenyan artist has shown his support. On May 30th, 2025, he released ”June 25”, a searing protest anthem recounting the youth-led anti-finance bill protest of 2024 and the brutal government that followed.
But Octopizzo is not alone.
various kenyan celebrities supporting the Genz movement
He joins a growing list of Kenyan celebrities, artists, and influencers who have taken to the streets — and the digital space — to show solidarity with Gen Z and the everyday mwananchi living under a regime many now describe as suppressive and indifferent.
Figures like King Kaka, Bien, Wangechi, Elsa Majimbo, and content creators across TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram have either attended the June 25 protests or used their platforms to condemn police brutality and demand accountability.
Their collective message is clear: enough is enough.
According to KNH CEO William Sigilai, 16 casualties were received after the protests. Seven were admitted, and nine were discharged. While two have undergone surgery, the silence around Kariuki’s specific condition remains deafening.
KNH CEO William Sigilai (center)
This united front from Kenya’s creative community marks a turning point. What began as scattered protests has now transformed into a generational movement — with music, art, and activism converging to challenge the state’s excesses.
by bradley odhiambo
