June 20, 2025 — Nairobi, Kenya — A powerful wave of solidarity swept across Kenya on Friday as thousands donned face masks in a nationwide protest to honor Boniface Kariuki, a hawker who was tragically shot by police during recent demonstrations. The movement, popularly known as “Mask Friday,” was initiated by comedian and social activist Eric Omondi, who called on Kenyans to unite in peaceful remembrance of Kariuki also known by his stage name Eli Joshua.
The tragic incident that sparked this outpouring of support involved Kariuki being shot at close range by a police officer while selling face masks amidst growing tensions during protests in Nairobi. The killing has since ignited widespread outrage and demands for accountability and justice across the country.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua publicly joined the movement by wearing a mask during a political rally held in Meru County. Accompanied by leaders from his political party, Democracy for the Citizen, Gachagua expressed his condolences to Kariuki’s family and urged for peaceful resolution of grievances through dialogue. His visible participation lent significant political weight to the grassroots campaign.
The Mask Friday campaign transcended political and social boundaries, attracting participation from a broad spectrum of Kenyan society. Celebrities, civil society activists, university students, boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) riders, and ordinary citizens across Nairobi, Mombasa, Baringo, and Machakos counties embraced the call to action. The governor of Machakos County, Wavinya Ndeti, also took part by sharing a photo of herself wearing a mask on social media, signaling her solidarity with the campaign.
Participants in the protest emphasized that the mask now a symbol of both protection and protest represents the struggle for justice and human dignity. Many wore masks emblazoned with messages calling for police reform, transparency, and respect for the rights of vulnerable workers such as hawkers.
Eric Omondi, who initiated the campaign, remarked in an interview, “Mask Friday is not just about a mask on the face it is about masking the silence and speaking out against brutality and injustice.” He encouraged Kenyans to continue advocating peacefully for change, emphasizing the power of unity in confronting systemic abuses.
The police officer involved in the shooting, identified as Kilinzy Barasa, has been suspended pending investigation. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has pledged a thorough inquiry, promising that justice will be served for Kariuki’s family and the nation.
As Kenyans reflect on this tragedy, the Mask Friday protest serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of peaceful activism and the collective power of citizens in demanding accountability. It also highlights the challenges faced by informal workers like hawkers who often bear the brunt of heavy-handed law enforcement.
The national response to Kariuki’s death underscores a growing call for comprehensive reforms in law enforcement practices and respect for human rights. It also cements the role of creative activism — exemplified by Eric Omondi’s initiative — in galvanizing public sentiment and fostering social change.
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