Nairobi, Kenya- Kisii town became the heartbeat of the nation on Wednesday morning as hundreds of determined young Kenyans took to the streets in a peaceful, energetic protest—marking one year since the deadly June 25, 2024 demonstrations against the now-defunct Finance Bill.
From the moment the sun rose, Gen Z protesters filled Kisii’s town centre, waving Kenyan flags and chanting for justice.
Many wore black in honor of those who died during last year’s unrest. Others raised green leaves—symbols of peace and resistance—while blowing whistles and calling for accountability.
It was not a riot. It was a statement.
Marching in unison, the protesters moved peacefully through the bustling heart of Kisii, making it one of the first and most vibrant towns to kick off this year’s commemorative Gen Z-led demonstrations.
There were no reports of violence or looting—just synchronized chants, handmade placards, and the unmistakable resolve of a generation demanding more.
Kisii residents, who remember last year’s protests vividly, turned out in large numbers to support the youth. “This is not just about the Finance Bill anymore. It’s about justice for the lives lost and the rights we still fight for,” said Brian Mokaya, a university student marching alongside others.
The protest remained orderly, with demonstrators keeping to the streets while police officers maintained a watchful but non-aggressive presence.
The calm in Kisii was in stark contrast to the scenes in parts of Nairobi and Kiambu, where police blocked roads and extinguished bonfires.
In Kisii, no bonfires. No tear gas. Just youth with a mission.
Wednesday’s demonstration was part of a wider, decentralized protest effort led by Kenya’s Gen Z, commemorating those who were killed or went missing during last year’s police crackdown.
Human rights groups estimate that over 60 young people died in the 2024 protests.
As the chants echoed off Kisii’s buildings and into the highlands, one thing was clear: Kenya’s third liberation, as some are now calling it, may have just found its loudest voice in Kisii.
