Photos and videos circulating online show the former officer operating a roadside maize stand, a common informal trade in Kenyan towns.
The images quickly spread across social media, prompting many Kenyans to rally behind him with messages of support and financial contributions.
The officer’s dismissal is linked to the nationwide Gen Z-led demonstrations that erupted over governance and economic concerns. The protests, largely driven by young Kenyans, saw thousands take to the streets across major towns.
During the demonstrations, tensions between protesters and law enforcement escalated, with reports of tear gas, injuries, and fatalities in several areas.
The protests later became the subject of a High Court ruling, which declared that the use of excessive force against demonstrators was unconstitutional.
Against this backdrop, the officer’s alleged involvement in the protests appears to have cost him his job, pushing him into the informal sector.
Selling boiled maize, like roasted maize and other street foods, is a common survival option for many unemployed Kenyans due to its low startup cost and steady demand.
Online users have since mobilized to support the former officer, with some praising his resilience and willingness to work rather than remain idle.
Others have framed his situation as a reflection of the economic pressures facing many young people, including those previously employed in formal sectors.
The story has also reignited debate about the role of security officers during public demonstrations, particularly when personal convictions intersect with official duties.
In recent months, authorities have introduced new training measures aimed at ensuring police handle protests in a way that respects human rights and minimizes harm.
For now, the former officer continues to earn a living from his maize business, serving customers on the roadside as public attention around his story grows.
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