Government waives 816K bill of innocent hawker killed by police officer

In a major relief effort aimed at easing the burden on families affected by recent political unrest, the Kenyan government—through the Ministry of Health—has announced a full waiver of medical bills for all patients injured during the Nairobi protests held on June 17 and 25, 2025.

The directive, issued under the leadership of Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, includes the outstanding bill for the late Boniface Mwangi Kariuki, a young mask vendor whose shooting during the demonstrations drew national outrage and amplified demands for police accountability.

“The recent demonstrations…resulted in injuries and emotional distress for many Kenyans. As a Ministry, our hearts go out to all those affected. We remain committed to ensuring they receive the care and support they need,” read an official statement from CS Duale.

Relief for Affected Families

As per the directive, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has been instructed to waive all hospital bills for protest-related injuries, with the expenses now charged to the hospital’s Disaster Emergency Fund.

This includes the medical bill of KSh 815,805 accrued by Boniface Kariuki, who was placed on life support after being shot in the head during the June 17 demonstrations. He was declared brain dead on June 30.

Kariuki’s case had become a heartbreaking symbol of the cost of civil unrest, with his family previously lamenting the soaring hospital fees and lack of government support, even as their son’s condition sparked widespread public sympathy.

Human Rights Crisis

The government’s action comes amid growing scrutiny over the handling of recent protests. Originally peaceful, the demonstrations on June 17 and the June 25 Gen Z-led anniversary protests turned violent, marred by police crackdowns, the use of tear gas, and alleged live rounds.

According to ongoing investigations by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), these confrontations resulted in multiple injuries and fatalities. Boniface’s shooting, reportedly while conducting his usual business selling face masks, shocked the nation and intensified calls for justice.

Rare Move Toward Accountability

In a rare but significant development, the police officers linked to Kariuki’s shooting have since been arrested and arraigned. This step toward accountability has been welcomed by rights groups and citizens, many of whom hope that Kariuki’s case will mark a turning point in the fight against impunity during state operations.

While the medical bill waiver brings financial relief, many Kenyans see it as a tacit acknowledgment of state responsibility in the chaos that unfolded.

“It’s a welcome gesture,” said a family member of Kariuki, “but it cannot replace what we lost. What we need is justice.”

A Nation in Reflection

As Kenya continues to reel from the aftermath of the protests, the waiver serves as a small but meaningful step by the state in addressing the suffering of affected families. However, for many—including Kariuki’s family—the ultimate resolution lies not in financial assistance, but in truth, justice, and meaningful police reforms.