Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has spoken out following the shocking police shooting of a hawker during protests in the city. He condemned the officer involved and demanded swift action to bring those responsible to justice.
The incident, which happened during demonstrations seeking justice for the late teacher Albert Ojwang—who reportedly died in police custody—left a young hawker, Boniface Kariuki, critically injured after he was shot by a police officer.
In a statement to the media, Sakaja described the shooting as unacceptable in a democratic country.
“What happened to Boniface Kariuki is tragic and disturbing. I call for a full and independent investigation, and I expect the officer responsible to be held fully accountable,” he said.
While defending Kenyans’ right to protest peacefully, the governor condemned the violence and destruction that occurred. He pointed fingers at individuals he termed as “hired goons” who were brought into Nairobi to sabotage the otherwise peaceful protests.
“We must not let criminals hijack the democratic right to protest. Destroying property and injuring people is not acceptable,” he added.
He urged the National Police Service to take firm but fair action against those behind the violence. Speaking to the youth, Sakaja warned them against being used by political actors to stir chaos under the cover of lawful protests.
Meanwhile, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino launched a scathing attack on the governor, accusing him of hiring thugs to disrupt the protest. In a video message, Babu blamed Sakaja for turning peaceful demonstrations violent.
“The goons in town today are criminals. And the governor must take responsibility,” Babu said, accusing Sakaja of using intimidation tactics to silence dissent.
He urged police to hunt down the culprits and ensure they face the law, adding that young Kenyans will not be silenced or intimidated.
“Governor Sakaja, hurting people doesn’t show strength—it shows fear. Your goons have caused pain today, and we will not let this go unanswered,” he warned.
Babu also offered solidarity with the victims, promising continued support for justice and peace.
“To those affected, we see you. We will not stop fighting for a just and safe country where everyone’s voice matters,” he concluded.
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