Today marks exactly one year since the deadly Finance Bill 2024 protests, during which several young Kenyans lost their lives in violent confrontations with police.
What began last year as a youth-led stand against oppressive taxation turned into a national tragedy and a defining moment for a generation.
In remembrance of those killed, many of whom were students and first-time protestors, today’s demonstrations are being framed not just as a protest, but a memorial.
Below is a live update from Nairobi CBD and across the country.
Live Updates
11: 28 a.m.: Former Chief Justice David Maraga has been teargassed as police dispersed demonstrators during the Gen Z protest in Nairobi.
11: 20 a.m.: Senator Okiya Omtatah has joined demonstrators in Nairobi CBD as protests marking the Gen Z anniversary continue to unfold.
11: 15 a.m.: A protester has been injured after attempting to handle a tear gas canister at Nairobi CBD.
11: 10 a.m.: Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has joined the ongoing Gen Z-led protests in Nairobi CBD.
11: 01 a.m.: Protests have begun in Nakuru Town as part of the nationwide Gen Z demonstrations marking the anniversary of the deadly June 25, 2024, Finance Bill protests.
10: 49 a.m.: Protesters in Kisii lit a bonfire on as part of the nationwide June 25th demonstrations commemorating the first anniversary of the Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
10: 35 a.m.: Former Chief Justice David Maraga has joined demonstrators in Nairobi CBD.
10: 01 a.m.: Police have lobbed tear gas to disperse protesters along Kimathi Street in Nairobi CBD as protests gain momentum.
9: 52 a.m.: Protesters have gathered outside Central Police Station in Nairobi as nationwide Gen Z demonstrations gain momentum.
9: 37 a.m.: Several businesses in Nairobi CBD remained closed on Wednesday morning as crowds began streaming into the city.
9:17 a.m.: Protests have kicked off along Moi Avenue in Mombasa as Gen Z demonstrators begin marking the anniversary of last year’s anti-Finance Bill unrest.
8:41 a.m.: Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka was spotted in Nairobi CBD, joining protestors in honor of Gen Z demonstrators killed during last year’s anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
8:26 a.m.: Protesters have begun assembling near the National Archives in Nairobi CBD.
7:56 a.m.: Heavily armed police officers have been deployed along Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and near the National Archives, though no protest activity had been reported by the time of reporting.
7:40 a.m.: Police extinguish a bonfire lit by unknown individuals at Mama Ngina stage in Kinoo.
7:10 a.m.: Closure of multiple roads leading into Nairobi CBD ahead of planned Gen Z-led protests has forced people to walk into the city center.
The road closures come amid heightened security in the capital as the country marks the first anniversary of last year’s deadly Finance Bill protests.
6:05 a.m. :Police officers have already been deployed across key intersections in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD). Security presence is visibly heavier than usual.
5:10 a.m.: Police erect wire mesh barriers around Parliament and block roads leading into Nairobi’s central business district.
10:20 p.m.: (June 24): A group of youth and civil society members held prayers along Tom Mboya Street, Nairobi CBD, ahead of today’s nationwide peaceful protests. The vigil was in honour of those killed on June 25, 2024.
Police on Protests
The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, had issued orders to Kenyans and the police ahead of the June 25, 2025, protest.
Also Read: Moi University Tells Students to Plant Trees, Not Protest, on Finance Bill Protest Anniversary
While speaking to the press on Tuesday, June 24, Kanja asked the public to remain calm, comply with the law, and show mutual respect between demonstrators and law enforcement officers.
Further, he warned that any group acting outside the law would be dealt with firmly to prevent breaches of peace.
“The constitution guarantees every person the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present a petition to public authority. Also, the Public Order Act requires that such assembled persons should cooperate and coordinate with the police,” said Kanja.
Govt Response to Foreign Embassies
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has issued a formal response to concerns raised by 12 foreign embassies and high commissions over planned nationwide protests marking the anniversary of last year’s deadly Finance Bill demonstrations.
Also Read: US & European Embassies Issue Warning to Govt Ahead of Gen Z Protests
In a diplomatic note addressed to the embassies of Denmark, Finland, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States, as well as the high commissions of Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, the ministry acknowledged a social media post made by foreign envoys regarding the June 25 protests.
The ministry reaffirmed the Kenyan government’s commitment to upholding the constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, calling them “a protected pillar of Kenya’s constitutional democracy.”
However, it emphasized that the exercise of these rights must be peaceful and within the bounds of the law.
“The responsibility to protect the public, prevent violence, and safeguard peace lies squarely with the State and must be exercised with restraint, legality, and care,” the statement read, adding that all law enforcement operations are subject to judicial oversight and public accountability.
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It’s interesting to see how Gen Z is taking the lead in these protests. Their activism and engagement in issues that directly affect them, like governance and climate change, is inspiring. I wonder how the government plans to address the growing need for youth-led participation in decision-making.
The government’s handling of these protests raises some serious questions. While security is important, limiting access to the CBD and surrounding areas seems like it could escalate tensions rather than ease them. How do we find a balance between ensuring peace and respecting citizens’ right to protest?
It’s great to see media fighting back to maintain their independence, especially when reporting on political matters. But how do you think this will affect the media’s ability to report freely in the future, considering the tension with the government?