Chief Inspector David Karuri Maina, who lost both arms when a tear gas canister exploded in his hands, has spoken about the incident.
Speaking from his hospital bed at Nairobi West Hospital, Maina expressed deep sadness over how the event has drastically altered his life. He admitted that losing both forearms has left him unable to perform many activities he once took for granted.
“It was a tragic day when this happened while we were maintaining calm in Nairobi. This incident has significantly changed my life because there are so many things I will no longer be able to do as before,” Maina said. “I don’t know what I will tell my kids about this. I know they will be very shocked.”
Maina’s remarks came after a visit from Tourism Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua and Nairobi Police Commander Adamson Bungei.
Mutua emphasized that his visit highlighted the profound impact of the recent protests on individuals and the larger community, underscoring the need for tolerance, unity, and resilience in challenging times.
“My visit underscores the significant effect of the recent unrest on both the individuals involved and the broader community, highlighting the need for tolerance, unity, and resilience during difficult times,” said the CS.
Mutua also pledged to contribute Ksh 1 million to assist Maina, in collaboration with Governor Ole Ntuntu.
“My friend, Governor Ole Ntuntu, and I are contributing one million to help the young man whose life has been devastated, so it can at least cushion him. I hope others will also contribute to change his life,” he said.
