Makueni County Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior has joined a growing number of leaders expressing concern over the recent shooting of a mask vendor along Moi Avenue, Nairobi.
The incident, caught on camera and widely shared online, has sparked outrage across the country.
In a post made early Wednesday morning, June 18, 2025, the governor expressed deep concern over the shooting and urged Kenyans to mobilise and create a paybill number to help raise funds for the young man’s medical treatment.
Mutula noted with relief that the vendor, though critically injured, is still alive and currently receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital. He urged the hospital management to spare no effort in ensuring the victim receives the best care possible using all available resources.
The governor also called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to expedite the investigation into the officer involved in the shooting.
He warned against any attempts to delay justice or downplay the situation, insisting that the officer responsible has already been clearly identified and must face the law without excuses.
“We thank God that Joshua is still alive. KNH should use all resources to ensure he gets the best treatment. KOT can create a pay bill if deemed necessary. The police officer who shot him has been unmasked. We don’t expect short stories, Bwana IG,” Mutula said.
Treatment
Meanwhile, Director General of Health Dr Patrick Amoth issued a late-night update from Kenyatta National Hospital regarding the condition of the injured vendor.
Speaking on Tuesday night, June 17, Amoth confirmed that the victim was brought in around 4:00 pm, immediately assessed by the emergency team, and received the necessary first aid before being prepared for surgery.
“The patient was received here at around 4:00 pm. He was promptly evaluated by the emergency team, the necessary first aid was administered and tests were conducted,” Amoth said.
Dr Amoth explained that although the hospital had yet to identify the patient or determine his age, a team of neurosurgeons had already taken him to the theatre for an emergency neurosurgical procedure.
He said all tests and evaluations pointed to the urgency of the surgery due to the severity of the head injury sustained during the shooting.
Identity
The man’s identity remains unknown as efforts continue to trace his family. The situation has only heightened calls for accountability and police reform as the nation watches closely for how the government will respond.
“We still don’t have his details in terms of name and age. Evaluation by the neurosurgeons indicated that he was required to undergo an emergency neurosurgical procedure, and the patient is in the theatre with the neurosurgical team,” Amoth noted.
