Comedian and activist Eric Omondi made a heartfelt revelation that surprised many Kenyans when he disclosed that his late father had been a high-ranking police officer. In an emotional video shared on Thursday, June 26, Omondi addressed the ongoing national outcry following the fatal June 25 protests that saw the deaths of at least 11 people, allegedly at the hands of police.
Wearing a police-like uniform, Eric announced that his father had served as a Chief Inspector and Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Kisumu Central Police Station. He explained that his father had started his career as a reservist before rising through the ranks. This rarely known detail about his family background added weight to his appeal, which focused on the need for urgent reform within the police service.
Omondi’s video struck a chord with many, especially coming after disturbing reports and images from the protests. In his message, he emphasized that before being law enforcers, police officers are first human beings — sons, daughters, fathers, and mothers. He called on officers to remember their duty to protect life above all else. The pain in his voice was evident as he shared his personal anguish, particularly after witnessing a female police officer being assaulted by protesters. “I saw my mother yesterday,” he emotionally remarked, linking the image of the officer to his late father’s memory and his upbringing in a police household.
Eric also recalled the distressing scene of a street hawker being shot at close range by a policeman. Such incidents, he said, should never happen again. As part of his advocacy, he declared the following day as “Police Friday,” a symbolic campaign aimed at encouraging officers to publicly recommit to their duty of safeguarding life.
To amplify this initiative, he urged police officers across the country to record short video messages pledging their support for humane policing. He invited them to send these clips directly to him, promising to share them widely. His appeal was not just to the system, but to individual officers — reminding them of their personal responsibility in times of civil unrest.
The response from Kenyans online was overwhelmingly supportive. Many praised Eric for using his platform and personal grief to speak out against violence and inspire change. Comments flooded in from citizens who resonated deeply with his message, calling it sincere and powerful.
Amid this serious conversation, another figure captured public attention during the same week. Content creator and digital artist Catherine Jepkemboi, known for her miniature-themed visual edits, lightened the mood with a satirical image related to the protests. She portrayed herself vaulting over a line of razor wire installed near Parliament Road — a playful, digitally edited scene that featured riot police in the background, one appearing to chase her. Her post went viral, with many Kenyans appreciating the clever mix of humor and commentary.
While the nation continues to grapple with the impact of the protests and police response, Eric Omondi’s heartfelt call has added a deeply human dimension to the national dialogue — one rooted in personal experience, empathy, and a clear vision for a more compassionate police force.
