Aasai

In a growing political standoff, Kenya Kwanza leaders have accused the opposition of plotting to use the upcoming Generation Z protests as a tool to create unrest and sabotage government operations. The leaders claim that the opposition is mobilizing young people under the guise of peaceful demonstrations in a bid to incite violence, derail development projects, and create widespread political tension across the country.

Speaking separately during events held in West Pokot and Nyamira counties, prominent government-aligned politicians expressed concern that the ongoing political agitation is not only premature but also potentially dangerous. They argued that these protests, allegedly backed by the opposition, are being used to escalate public dissatisfaction and stir instability, particularly ahead of the 2027 general elections.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula warned of the potential consequences of violent protests, especially on small businesses. “Imagine someone owns a small shop stocked with goods worth just KSh 100,000. When chaos erupts and looters take everything, insurance doesn’t cover such losses. That’s a life shattered,” Wetang’ula stated, emphasizing that many ordinary Kenyans end up bearing the brunt of politically motivated chaos.

Parliament Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah also condemned what he described as a culture of "endless politics and tribal incitement" being promoted by the opposition. He urged Kenyans to stay focused on development, unity, and peace, saying, “What do we say to those who engage in ceaseless politics, tribalism, and hatred? We say: be defeated! Let us keep working. Development should be continuous, without breaks.”

South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro added a passionate plea for peace, stating, “No one should lose their life for anyone’s political agenda. Whatever evil was being planned for next week, we say: may the devil be defeated!”

These statements come in response to a planned protest scheduled for June 25, 2025, organized by Gen Z activists to commemorate the lives lost during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations. The protest aims to honor the memory of the deceased, demand justice, and call for police accountability. Families of the victims have expressed frustration with the pace of investigations and demanded action from authorities.

However, the families and several civil rights groups have also cautioned politicians against politicizing the upcoming protest. Advocate Njanja Maina, representing some of the grieving families, emphasized that the event is not a political opportunity but a moment of mourning and justice. “This day belongs to the families who buried their children. We’ve witnessed how paid goons infiltrate peaceful protests to manipulate them for political ends. We will not allow anyone to hijack our pain for personal or political gain. Stand with us or respectfully stay away,” she stated firmly.

In response to the anticipated protest, Nairobi police boss George Seda confirmed that authorities had received official notification from organizers and assured the public that law enforcement would be deployed to ensure the demonstration remains peaceful. “Let’s restrict ourselves to peaceful demonstrations. Do not disrupt those who are not participating. We will provide security to all,” Seda stated during a press briefing.

As the country braces for June 25, tensions remain high. The convergence of youth activism, political posturing, and public mourning has created a delicate environment where the potential for either meaningful civic engagement or chaotic disorder looms. The government is calling for calm, the opposition remains accused, and the victims’ families demand justice—with all eyes on how the events will unfold.