The Kenyan government has announced the waiver of medical bills for victims of the 17 and 25 June 2025 protests, including a significant KSh 815,805 bill for the late Boniface Kariuki, who passed away on 30 June 2025.
The decision follows widespread demonstrations that left many injured, with several requiring extensive medical treatment. Boniface Kariuki, whose case attracted national attention, succumbed to injuries sustained during the protests.
Kariuki’s family spokesperson, Emily Wanjira, confirmed the news, stating that they received a call from Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in the afternoon informing them of his passing.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale issued a statement directing KNH to cover the costs using the hospital’s Disaster Emergency Fund, providing relief to families affected by the recent unrest.
“This includes the outstanding bill of the late Mr Boniface Kariuki, which stood at KSh 815,805 at the time of his passing,” the statement read.
His hospital bill, which had accumulated to KSh 815,805 by the time of his death, is among those cleared under the government’s directive.
The move aims to ease the financial burden on affected families and signals an effort to respond to public concerns raised during the protests.
CS Duale also extended his condolences to bereaved families, saying: “We offer our deepest condolences to families who have lost loved ones and extend our support to all those still recovering.”
Duale further noted that the waiver applies to all victims treated at KNH for injuries related to the specified protest dates. However, the ministry has yet to release a full list of beneficiaries or the total cost covered by the Disaster Emergency Fund.
Authorities have also not clarified whether similar measures will apply to other hospitals or future incidents. This development comes as the government faces continued public debate over the protests, which were driven by contentious policy issues.
Notably, Boniface Kariuki’s family is still calling for justice and urgent legal action against those responsible for the shooting. Referring to the incident as a criminal and unjustifiable attack on a civilian, they are urging the judiciary to bring charges against the involved officers.
– Jeremiah Richu
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