Mugithi star Samidoh Muchoki has spoken out following a disturbing incident in which a police officer shot an unarmed street vendor in broad daylight in Nairobi’s Central Business District on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
Using his social media platforms, the popular Kikuyu musician condemned the officer’s use of excessive force, calling for justice, accountability, and reform. Quoting American civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer, Samidoh wrote, “No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.” The powerful message quickly went viral, sparking conversations online and beyond.
His comments came in the wake of graphic footage that emerged on social media showing a police officer shooting a vendor at close range near Imenti House, along Mondlane Street. Eyewitnesses say the officer had initially fired warning shots into the air before turning on the vendor, reportedly a calm and cooperative man selling face masks.
According to reports, the officer was part of a deployment stationed along Moi Avenue to monitor protests. The victim, whose identity and medical condition remain unknown at the time of this report, was shot in the head—an act that has since drawn national outrage and renewed calls to end police brutality in Kenya.
In a follow-up post on Instagram, Samidoh added, “When a street vendor becomes a target for bullets instead of support, it speaks volumes about where we are as a society.”
Widely known for infusing his music with messages of social awareness, Samidoh’s stance was applauded by fans and human rights groups, many of whom urged other public figures to use their influence for justice.
Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to take swift action as Kenyans await updates on the investigation.
