Kenya on Edge Ahead of June 25 Protest Anniversary Amid Calls for Justice and Calm
NAIROBI — Kenya is bracing for peaceful demonstrations this Wednesday as the country marks the first anniversary of the June 25, 2024, protests victims who died during the 2024 anti finance bill demonstrations. The movement, led primarily by young Kenyans, erupted in opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2024 and resulted in deaths of over 60 Gen Z and millennial protestors outside parliament following the government insistent stand to uphold the finance bill 20224 that saw to increase taxes on basic commodities amid tough economic times, causing injuries to many more, and widespread unrest following abductions and forced disappearances.
Opposition leaders and youth organizers have called for peaceful protests to honor those killed during the protests. The government has not declared the date a public holiday but has acknowledged security preparations are in place.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda confirmed that law enforcement is ready to secure both protesters and the public.
“We have a plan and will provide security to ensure that those participating and those not participating will be safe,” Seda stated on Sunday.
The 2024 protests initially began as peaceful rallies demanding accountability and transparency in government spending. The demonstrations turned deadly after clashes between police and protesters escalated across major cities, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Nakuru. Multiple fatalities were reported. Hundreds sustained injuries.
Public anger was fueled by frustration with what many saw as a bloated, corrupt government that had lost touch with ordinary citizens. In response to the public outcry, President William Ruto withdrew the Finance Bill and later dismissed his Cabinet. Some officials returned in limited roles, but the administration has continued to face criticism.
Accusations of extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses have intensified in the past year. The death of teacher and blogger Albert Ojwany in police custody earlier this month reignited outrage, with civil rights groups demanding accountability from law enforcement.
Despite repeated calls for reform, President Ruto has maintained his stance, stating that his government will stay focused on development and service delivery.
“We must stay the course,” he said during a recent public address, without directly commenting on the upcoming protests.
The June 25 anniversary protests are expected to draw thousands to the streets. Organizers insist the demonstrations will remain peaceful. However, past events and recent tensions have raised concerns of possible confrontations.
Citizens and human rights advocates are urging restraint from both protesters and police.
“This anniversary is not about violence. It’s about remembering the lives lost and the voices that brought change,” said a youth activist involved in organizing Wednesday’s march.
The government has yet to release an official death toll from the 2024 protests. Independent reports suggest that at least 13 people were killed nationwide during the week-long demonstrations.
As Kenyans prepare to take to the streets again, hopes for a peaceful commemoration remain high but so does anxiety over how authorities will respond.
