Renowned comedian and activist Eric Omondi has made an emotional appeal to Kenyans to help him trace the mother of Boniface Kariuki, the hawker who was shot by a police officer during the June 17 protests in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
Boniface, a mask vendor, was captured on video being shot at close range during the demonstrations, sparking widespread national outrage. The disturbing footage has triggered strong condemnation from leaders across the political and religious divide, as Kenyans demand justice for victims of police brutality.
Following the incident, Boniface’s mother emotionally recounted how she found out that her son had been the one shot and left in critical condition. Her distress moved many online, including Eric Omondi, who has since launched a public appeal to help locate her.
In a post shared on social media, Eric displayed a photo of the devastated mother and pleaded for help identifying or reaching her. He mentioned that he was told she hails from Kangema in Murang’a County and asked anyone with her contact to get in touch directly through private message.
Boniface’s condition remains critical at Kenyatta National Hospital, though hospital officials confirmed he is alive and receiving treatment. His father also visited him and gave an update affirming that Boniface was stable, dismissing earlier online rumors that claimed otherwise. He shared that he, too, is a hawker and expressed the deep pain of watching his son suffer for simply trying to make a living.
The comedian’s intervention has been met with a mix of hope and skepticism from the public. While many have applauded Eric’s continued efforts to stand up for victims of state violence, others have cautioned against potential political manipulation. Several netizens expressed fears that the mother could be influenced or used by political players, as seen in other high-profile protest cases. Some urged caution and transparency in handling support and donations.
Eric’s initiative is part of his broader advocacy for social justice and police reform. Over recent months, he has become a visible figure in nationwide protests, often using his platform to amplify the voices of the oppressed. His work has garnered praise from supporters who see him as a symbol of youth resilience and action.
Meanwhile, pressure continues to mount on the National Police Service to hold accountable the officer responsible for the shooting. Authorities have announced that the officer involved has been arrested and is facing prosecution. This step has been welcomed, though civil society groups insist that systemic reforms are necessary to prevent future incidents.
The shooting of Boniface Kariuki is just one of several cases fueling a growing movement against police excesses. Leaders and citizens alike have called for expanded training for officers, implementation of body cameras, and increased investment in community policing.
As Boniface continues his fight for recovery, the search for his mother continues—with Kenyans now rallying not just for justice, but also for healing and support for the families left devastated by such tragedies.
