Aasai

On June 25, 2024, Kenya witnessed a historic uprising led by its youngest generation, Gen Z, that not only shook the foundations of power in Nairobi but also captured global attention. What began as online dissent against the controversial Finance Bill 2024 transformed into one of the most powerful civic movements in the country’s history. The youth-led protest, defined by courage, unity, and digital mobilization, defied expectations and reshaped Kenya’s political discourse.

The Finance Bill, which proposed sharp tax increases on essential goods and services, sparked widespread outrage. Many young Kenyans feared the bill would drastically increase the cost of living and suffocate an already struggling population. Hashtags like #RejectFinanceBill, #OccupyParliament, and #RutoMustGo quickly gained traction on social media platforms, igniting a digital firestorm that culminated in nationwide protests.

By June 18, days before the parliamentary vote, the streets of Nairobi were already ablaze with activity. Young protesters, dressed in black and waving Kenyan flags, marched in large numbers. They chanted anti-government slogans and demanded accountability from elected leaders. Despite being met with tear gas and police force, the youth persisted with a determination that stunned both local authorities and international observers.

On the day of the vote, June 25, protesters in Nairobi surged towards Parliament with a singular mission: to stop the Bill. The Central Business District (CBD) was overwhelmed by thousands who had marched from all directions. Police deployed tear gas and water cannons, but the demonstrators, many covering their faces with toothpaste to counteract the effects, stood their ground. The protest eventually escalated into a direct breach of Parliament’s perimeter — a rare and alarming event in Kenya’s democratic history.

Inside Parliament, MPs proceeded with the vote amid the chaos outside. Some lawmakers were hurriedly evacuated, including Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, after protesters began pelting vehicles with stones. Media personnel, caught in the crossfire, were mistaken for government officials. One journalist sustained injuries during the melee.

By evening, President William Ruto addressed the nation, describing the breach as a “treasonous” act. However, the intensity of the protest forced his hand — he rejected the Finance Bill in its entirety, bowing to mounting national pressure.

Yet, the victory was marred by tragedy. Several protesters were reported missing, and some, like Denzel Omondi, were later found dead under suspicious circumstances. Human rights groups, including the Kenya Human Rights Commission, documented at least 60 deaths, over 1,300 arbitrary arrests, and hundreds of injuries between June and November 2024. Government authorities, meanwhile, denied involvement in any abductions or illegal detentions.

Despite the crackdown, the protests marked a new era in Kenya’s democracy. Gen Z, once seen as apolitical, emerged as a dynamic civic force. Their use of digital tools to organize, educate, and demand reform has permanently altered the political landscape.

In response, the government introduced a zero-based budgeting system for the 2025/2026 fiscal year and has started addressing key issues such as youth unemployment, excessive taxation, and police brutality.

Today, on the anniversary of the protest, Gen Z has returned to the streets — not just to commemorate fallen heroes, but to renew their call for justice and accountability. Police have pledged to maintain order, while embassies in Kenya have urged the government to respect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly.

June 25, 2024, will forever be remembered as the day Kenya’s youth reclaimed their voice — loud, bold, and unstoppable.