Kenyan rapper and activist Octopizzo has taken a bold stand, demanding urgent answers over the fate of Boniface Kariuki — a 22-year-old vendor who was shot in the head during the recent protests in Nairobi. The incident, which occurred near Moi Avenue, has stirred national outrage and amplified calls for justice and police accountability.
The protests, driven by the surging #JusticeForOjwang movement, erupted following the controversial death of blogger Albert Ojwang while in police custody. Thousands of young Kenyans, fueled by anger and disillusionment, poured into the streets demanding reforms. But what began as peaceful demonstrations quickly turned bloody, with a growing number of casualties reported amid a heavy police crackdown.
Kariuki, who was simply trying to earn a living by selling face masks, became one of the tragic symbols of that violent day. After being shot, he was rushed to a nearby clinic before being referred to Kenyatta National Hospital for specialized treatment. Days later, the silence surrounding his condition has triggered widespread concern, prompting public figures to speak up.
Octopizzo, long known for using his voice and platform to speak on social justice issues, broke his silence with a direct plea: “What is the status of Boniface Kariuki?” His post resonated deeply with thousands of Kenyans demanding transparency, justice, and an end to senseless violence. The rapper emphasized that this is not just about one victim — it’s about the larger fight for dignity and safety for all Kenyan youth, especially those brave enough to challenge power.
This isn’t Octopizzo’s first time engaging with protest-related discourse. In late May, he released a hard-hitting protest anthem titled “June 25,” a raw lyrical chronicle of the 2024 anti-finance bill demonstrations and the repression that followed. The song has since become an anthem for many in the streets, capturing the generational frustration and hope that define the Gen Z-led movement.
Across the country, a wave of solidarity continues to grow. Prominent artists, influencers, and creators have aligned themselves with the cause. Celebrities such as King Kaka, Bien, Wangechi, Elsa Majimbo, and countless TikTok and YouTube personalities have used their platforms to condemn police brutality, call out government indifference, and amplify the cries of everyday Kenyans.
As the dust settles from the latest protest, public hospitals have confirmed multiple injuries — with some undergoing surgery and others already discharged. However, despite these official updates, no detailed report has been given on Kariuki’s current condition, and the silence has become unbearable for many.
What remains clear is that the youth of Kenya — supported by a powerful chorus of voices from the arts, media, and civil society — are no longer willing to be ignored. They are calling for transparency, justice, and genuine reforms.
And at the center of that cry stands the image of Boniface Kariuki, a young man who was not protesting, not shouting, but simply working — now caught in the crossfire of a nation’s long overdue reckoning.
