'We The People' are the three most powerful words in the Constitution of Kenya. A year ago, the reality of Kenyans rising against punitive economic challenges seemed farfetched – let alone the idea of young people being able to meaningfully organise and participate in political processes.
However, the contested Finance Bill of 2024 triggered unforeseen countrywide demonstrations to protest the punitive piece of legislation which sought to raise revenue of KES 3.7 trillion through taxation and acquisition of additional public debt.
Unlike the long history of the political elite-led demonstrations, the nationwide protests were led and headed predominantly by young people, known as Generation Z (Gen-Z) – those born in the late 90s and early 2000s – who demanded rejection of the finance bill.
Despite spirited opposition and demonstrations, the Bill went through the first and second reading and was eventually passed while protests were raging outside parliament. So enraged were the protesters that they stormed the parliament buildings and forced MPs to scamper for safety.
In chaos that ensued, on that fateful day of Tuesday, June 2024, Kenya’s police responded with tear gas, batons, and live bullets. Human rights groups records at least 42 demonstrators and bystanders killed and hundreds of demonstrators, bystanders, and police injured during the Gen Z protests last year.
Additionally, Kenya’s security apparatus initiated more targeted methods of cracking down on protests. The National Intelligence Service and Directorate of Criminal Investigations allegedly formed a covert unit to abduct protest organizers and human rights defenders.
Despite the President declining to assent Finance Bill 2024, his administration has faced increasing dissent from young Kenyans. Over time, these demands have evolved to decry the state of corruption, escalating public debt, accountability, impunity, incompetence, cronyism and wastage of public resources in both the executive and legislative arms of government.
Protesters continue mobilizing with far more sweeping and existential objectives related to Kenya’s political economy and demanding changes in the National Police Service following allegations of extrajudicial killings, abductions and human rights violations.
Thousands of young people have declared Wednesday, June 25, 2025, a public holiday, vowing to peacefully to commemorate their colleagues who lost their lives last year - after police opened fire- when Gen Z breached and 'occupied' parliament.
Among them is Muthoni, a 23-year-old activist. She once believed in the government's promises of prosperity. But as she gears-up for the anniversary demonstrations with a sign that reads, "Ruto Must Go," she feels disillusioned. "We trusted them to make things better," she told Julisha.co.ke , her voice full of frustration. "But all they've done is make it harder for us to survive."
The fight against the Finance Bill was about more than just economic policy; it has been a battle for their future. They feel betrayed by a government that promised change but delivered disappointment. They march against a system they believe is rigged against them. They believe they can create a new path, where their voices are heard and their futures safeguarded.
For years, the older generations have navigated through the murky waters of Kenyan politics, often resigning to the inevitabilities of corruption and inefficiency.
Young Kenyans, unlike their predecessors, have decided enough is enough. Their frustration, born from years of unfulfilled promises and broken systems, has catalysed a political awakening across the country. Gen Zs have had enough of it.
This movement began not with a single spark, but with the simmering anger of a generation tired of systemic corruption, inequality, and the stifling status quo.
The defenders of the status quo are rattled. For years, they have thrived in a system where things worked for a select few. Now, they face the daunting challenge of operating in a country where the demands are for equality and fairness.
The vision is clear: a country with equal opportunity for everyone, where corruption is not normalised, and where the youth are not sacrificed on the altar of political expediency. It is a vision of a Kenya that respects its constitution and its people, a Kenya where every voice is heard, and every life is valued.
The end goal is a reimagined Kenya — one where justice and equality are not just ideals but realities. This goal requires a relentless commitment to fighting corruption, ensuring transparency, and building systems that work for all citizens, not just a privileged few.
It involves creating opportunities for the youth, who are the backbone of the nation's future, and fostering an environment where their aspirations can be realised without fear of oppression or marginalisation.
