The family of Boniface Kariuki, a mask vendor who was shot during the anti-finance bill protests in Nairobi on June 17, has released a concerning update on his health, saying he is still in critical condition and not showing any signs of recovery.
Speaking to the media on Saturday outside Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), family members shared their frustrations, revealing that the hospital has not provided them with an official medical report about his condition.
However, they have been allowed to visit him, and from what they have seen, his condition remains unchanged since the day he was admitted.
“Up to now, we have not received any communication from the doctors about how he is doing. All we know is what we see during visits. He is still unresponsive, and it’s like his condition has not improved at all,” said the family’s lawyer during the press briefing.
Boniface’s father, Jonah Kariuki, spoke with deep sadness and concern, saying he is holding onto hope that the hospital will return his son alive and healthy, just like he used to be.
“I am truly heartbroken. My son is still in a very bad state. I’m just waiting for the day I’ll see him smiling and talking again, just the way he was before,” he emotionally shared.
This troubling update from the family comes at a time when many Kenyans are already expressing concern over the vendor’s health and whether he is receiving the proper care. Some fear that the true extent of his condition is being hidden.
“I really hope Kenyatta National Hospital is being transparent and not hiding the reality about Boniface Kariuki’s condition,” said Hanifa Adan, a well-known activist who has been vocal about the case on social media.
Doctors at KNH confirmed that Boniface remains in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after being shot at close range in the head. He underwent two emergency surgeries, including a complex neurosurgery to remove a bullet that was deeply lodged in his skull.
KNH Chief Executive Officer Dr. William Sigilai said Boniface is currently on life support and is being monitored constantly by a team of specialists from different medical departments.
Meanwhile, the family’s lawyer disclosed that despite the serious nature of the incident, no government official has reached out to them. They also attempted to report the shooting at the Central Police Station, but so far, their efforts have been unsuccessful.
“The family went to the Central Police Station in an attempt to file an official report, but they did not receive any assistance or guidance. No government representative has contacted them or offered any support, financial or otherwise,” the lawyer revealed.
Adding to their distress, the family said that the hospital bill has already risen to over Ksh 1 million, and they expect it to increase further as Boniface continues to receive treatment.
They fear the growing financial burden may soon become overwhelming without help.
The case of Boniface Kariuki has sparked national attention, with many Kenyans calling for justice and demanding greater accountability from the authorities.
His family continues to plead for transparency, medical updates, and government support as they face this heartbreaking ordeal.
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