Nairobi (KAAB TV) – Demonstrations have begun in Kenya gaining momentum in different parts of the country including Nairobi and Kisumu.
Background & Purpose
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Gen Z-led resurgence: June 25 marks the one-year anniversary of the youth-driven anti–Finance Bill protests that began in June 2024. These protests, often led by Gen Z, mobilized across Kenya—in over 25 counties—using Zello, WhatsApp, X, TikTok, and other platforms to coordinate marches under banners like “#RejectFinanceBill2024” and “Occupy Parliament”
Commemoration & Mobilization
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Official calls for remembrance: Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka urged Kenyans to light candles at Parliament on June 25, proposing the day be known as “Gen Z Liberation Day” or “Revolution Day,” even suggesting it become a national public holiday Government apology and demands: President Ruto apologised to Gen Z in May 2025 at a prayer service. Opposition leaders, including Raila Odinga, have called for compensation for victims’ families and accountability for those responsible.
Accountability & Justice
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IPOA disclosures: The Independent Policing Oversight Authority released names of nine individuals killed near Parliament on June 25, 2024—six by gunfire, three by blunt trauma. Investigations are still ongoing Pressure mounting: Civil society organizations, including IPOA, ODPP, Amnesty International, and LSK, are urging swift prosecution of officers implicated in excessive force, especially following the BBC documentary Blood Parliament
Today’s Atmosphere & Tensions
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Peaceful vigils & marches: Plans include candlelight vigils, floral tributes at Parliament gates, and digital campaigns. Youth activists and rights groups emphasize nonviolence
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Clashes & counter-protesters: In Nairobi, groups affiliated with “Team Sakaja”—some armed with clubs—have appeared alongside police, claiming to defend property. Prosecutors say they are militia, despite denials of coordination by authorities.
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Warnings & concerns: Authorities caution against unrest, highlighting risks of infiltration by agitators or violence. International envoys, including those from the US and UK, plus the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, have urged the safeguarding of peaceful protests.
Looking Ahead
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Key demands: Youth activists seek justice—prosecution of rogue officers, compensation for victims, institutional reforms, and formal recognition of June 25.
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Broader impact: This protest wave has sparked continental debates on youth empowerment and the accountability of governments to a more connected and vocal generation.
Summing Up
June 25, 2025, captures a mix of remembrance, activism, and heightened tension. Gen Z is again mobilizing to seek justice and institutional change; the stakes are high amid fears of renewed violence. All eyes are on whether this anniversary can evoke healing—or ignite further unrest.