The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved murder charges against Klinzy Barasa, a police officer accused of fatally shooting a protester during the June 25, 2025 anti-government demonstrations. The incident, which took place amid widespread protests across the country, involved the alleged shooting of Boniface Kariuki, a mask vendor.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Barasa allegedly shot Kariuki in the head during a confrontation with protesters. Kariuki was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) where he remained in critical condition before succumbing to his injuries. The shooting drew widespread public outrage and calls for police accountability in handling demonstrations.
On Wednesday, Magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi confirmed that the DPP had formally filed a charge of murder against Barasa at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi. The case will now be mentioned before a High Court judge for further directions regarding the suspect’s arraignment.
“The first respondent will be remanded awaiting his arraignment before the High Court on the murder charges that have been preferred by the DPP,” ruled Magistrate Ekhubi, referring to Barasa.
In the same case, the court ordered the release of Barasa’s co-accused, Duncan Kiprono, citing lack of evidence linking him to the fatal shooting.
“Following information by the DPP, the second respondent herein will be at liberty unless otherwise,” the magistrate stated.
The ruling comes amid mounting scrutiny of the police response to the June 2025 protests, during which multiple allegations of excessive force were reported. Civil society groups have welcomed the move to charge Barasa, viewing it as a step toward justice for victims of police brutality.
The miscellaneous application against both respondents has since been formally closed at the Magistrates Court. Barasa remains in custody pending his appearance in the High Court, where he will face murder charges in connection with Kariuki’s death.
The case is expected to set a significant precedent in addressing police accountability in Kenya.
