NAIROBI, Kenya- As the clock ticks down to 2025, the streets of Kenya remain alive with the chants of youth demanding justice.
From the June Gen Z protests to anti-femicide marches, and now the “End Abductions” demonstrations, Kenyans have spent the better part of the year fighting for their rights.
The struggles paint a picture of a nation grappling with deep systemic issues, compounded by the unmet promises of its leadership.
The latest protests, led predominantly by young people, brought Nairobi’s streets to a standstill.
Demonstrators demanded the release of colleagues abducted by suspected state agents.
The haunting sounds of teargas canisters and the resolute chants of “Wako Wapi?” (Where are they?) filled the air.
The demonstrations exposed a grim reality of the Kenyan government’s inability—or unwillingness—to address human rights violations.
President William Ruto’s pledge to end abductions remains unfulfilled.
Instead, reports of more victims disappearing, often vocal government critics, fuel public outrage.
The year has been marked by bloodshed and tears.
In June, the Gen Z protests against a punitive finance bill and high cost of living resulted in more than 60 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Many victims suffered gunshot wounds; some succumbed to their injuries after months of hospitalization.
For the families of the deceased, justice remains elusive, leaving behind a trail of grief and despair.
Anti-femicide protests further highlighted the government’s failure to protect its citizens.
Women’s rights groups took to the streets to demand action against rising cases of gender-based violence.
These protests, like others, faced heavy-handed responses from security forces.
The youth have emerged as the government’s most formidable opposition.
With social media as their weapon, they’ve amplified their grievances and mobilized en masse.
However, their activism comes at a high cost. Abductions and intimidation tactics have become commonplace, targeting those who dare to challenge the state’s authority.
President Ruto’s administration has faced criticism for its tightening grip on power.
After a political truce with opposition leader Raila Odinga, who now eyes the African Union Commission (AUC) chair with government backing, Ruto has solidified control over Parliament.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s collaboration with Ruto further consolidates the regime’s dominance, leaving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kenya’s restless youth as the primary voices of dissent.
Despite the year’s numerous protests, justice remains elusive for victims and their families.
Investigations into the deaths and injuries from June’s protests have stalled, with no significant action taken against perpetrators.
The silence has only deepened the wounds of those left behind.
For families of the abducted, hope dwindles with each passing day.
Their loved ones’ fates remain unknown, and the government’s promises ring hollow. Tears and unanswered questions have become their daily reality.
As Kenya prepares to usher in a new year, the struggles that defined 2024 seem far from over.
The youth’s resilience—their refusal to back down in the face of oppression—signals a nation unwilling to accept the status quo.
Yet, the cost of this resistance is steep, with lives lost, families torn apart, and justice deferred.
President Ruto faces a crucial test of upholding the promises of justice and accountability or further alienate a generation that demands change.
The year ahead will determine whether Kenya can emerge from this turbulent chapter stronger or sink deeper into a cycle of oppression and unrest.
