Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has said Gen Zs are his heroes and heroines as the country marked Mashujaa Day.
Speaking at AIC Mwingi Town-Kasina on Sunday, Kalonzo celebrated Gen Zs and Millennials as the country celebrated all those who contributed towards the struggle for independence or positively contributed in post-independence Kenya.
“My heroes and heroines today are Kenyan Gen Zs and Millennials,” he said.
“Your showed bravery in the face of police brutality because you dared to exercise your constitutionally guaranteed rights will be remembered as one of the most significant milestones and watershed moments in our 61-year history,” he added.
Kenya recently witnessed protests, distinct from typical political demonstrations.
These protests transcended regional, political, ethnic, social, and economic boundaries in Kenya.
They reflected a growing concern among Kenyans about the high cost of living, persistent governance issues, corruption, foreign debt and an increasing inflation rate.
The protests led to various outcomes and repercussions, including the rejection of the Finance Bill 2024, changes in the Cabinet secretaries and suspension of re-appointments in the civil service.
A total of 39 people were killed during the anti-government protests, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights said.
In his address to the faithful, Kalonzo said Kenya will never be the same again because of the protests.
“Your call to duty, holding our Kenyan flag and peacefully marching through our streets to hold Executive and Legislative authorities accountable, has left an indelible impression on our minds and hearts,” he said.
“Because of your extraordinary and selfless actions, particularly your refusal to be silenced, Kenya will never be the same again. You have inspired all of us to hope for a better present and future.”
Kalonzo further said members of the media fraternity are also his heroes.
“ You've been tear-gassed, shot at, and clobbered with police batons. Yet you have stood up, reporting in real-time without fear, the atrocities committed by this brutal regime in real-time, fearlessly. Hongera!” he said.