Police Constable Klinzy Masinde Barasa, the officer accused of fatally shooting mask vendor Boniface Kariuki, has pleaded not guilty to murder charges at the Milimani Law Courts.
Barasa appeared before the judge to answer to the serious accusations, firmly denying any wrongdoing in the fatal incident that has since sparked public outrage and renewed calls for police accountability.
The shooting took place on June 25th during a peaceful gathering held in memory of lives lost during last year’s Gen-Z protests. The demonstrations, led by young Kenyans demanding justice, accountability, and reforms, had turned deadly in 2024, with several protestors losing their lives at the hands of security forces.
This year’s commemoration was meant to be a moment of reflection and solidarity, but it quickly turned into another tragedy when Kariuki, a vendor selling face masks, was allegedly gunned down by Constable Barasa.
Eyewitnesses claim the officer fired during a tense encounter, though the full circumstances remain under investigation.
The incident has once again raised alarm over the conduct of law enforcement during public gatherings and peaceful protests, with civil rights groups now closely monitoring the case and calling for justice not only for Kariuki but also for the broader issue of police brutality in Kenya.
Barasa’s plea of not guilty sets the stage for a highly anticipated trial, which will be watched both locally and internationally.
As the case proceeds, many are hoping it will mark a turning point in how such incidents are handled, and whether justice will finally be served for victims of excessive force.
Join Gen Z New WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
