Kirinyaga County, Kenya – The family of a 20-year-old woman fatally shot during the Saba Saba protests in Githurai, Nairobi, is pleading with the government to intervene, citing confusion and delays surrounding her postmortem examination.
Jackline Nyawira, a resident of Kirinyaga County, was reportedly shot while standing on the balcony of her apartment during the nationwide demonstrations held on July 7.
More than a week later, her body remains at the Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) mortuary, as her family continues to face frustrating bureaucracy from the police.
“I want to bury my daughter, but police are taking us in circles,” said her father, Jephita Njagi Kariuki. “When I go to Githurai 44 Police Station, they tell me to go to Kasarani. But at Kasarani, they send me back to Githurai. When will I bury my daughter?”
According to Nyawira’s mother, Purity Nyawira, her daughter was employed at a cybercafé in Githurai 44, but the premises had remained closed on the day of the protests.
“Her employer told us she was not even working that day. She was shot while standing at the balcony of her flat,” said the grieving mother.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Mukithi village in Kanyekiine Ward, where Jackline’s burial plans remain in limbo. Community members and local leaders have condemned the police’s handling of the case and are calling for urgent action to help the family move forward.
“We are still waiting for communication from police in Nairobi about the postmortem date,” said Jesse Muthike, a community elder. “We urge our elected leaders to step in and ensure this family gets justice and closure.”
The family’s distress comes as rights groups continue to raise alarms over police brutality during the Saba Saba protests, which have resulted in multiple deaths and injuries across the country.
As preparations for burial hang in uncertainty, the family and residents of Kanyekiine are left with one urgent question: When will Jackline Nyawira be laid to rest — and when will those responsible be held accountable?
Written by Were Kelly
