Political heat is rising ahead of tomorrow's planned demonstrations, with opposition leaders and civil society groups intensifying calls for Kenyans to stay away from work in remembrance of victims of the Gen Z-led anti-government protests.
The mobilisation has set the stage for a fresh confrontation with the government, which has warned against any attempts to disrupt public order or economic activities.
The Linda Mwananchi movement, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, on Tuesday announced the postponement of its Kisii and Nyamira rallies to join Kenyans in commemorating those who lost their lives during the June 25, 2024, protests.
The team said the day would be dedicated to honouring the victims and renewing calls for accountability over the deaths and injuries that occurred during the demonstrations.
“We will join other Kenyans of goodwill to stand in solidarity with the victims of the Gen Z protests of 2024 and their families, and in remembrance of those who were killed or have been forcibly disappeared,” Linda Mwananchi spokesperson Caroli Omondi said.
“We call upon the police to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens who will participate in the peaceful commemoration activities.”
Caroli also dismissed the Sh2 billion compensation by the state, arguing the government has not expressed a commitment to end future extrajudicial killings and abductions.
“We are deeply disappointed by the government’s decision to offer limited monetary assistance to the victims and their families without ensuring that justice is done and accountability upheld,” the Suba South MP noted.
“The lack of transparency in the compensation process and the government’s refusal to allow the constitutionally mandated bodies to oversee the process are compounding the pain of the victims and their families.”
“There is no pathway to reconciliation and a commitment never to repeat the killings and injuries inflicted on innocent Kenyans.”
Opposition leaders, led by Siaya Governor James Orengo and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have also thrown their weight behind the planned activities, urging Kenyans to observe the day as a public holiday.
The leaders urged workers to remain at home and asked learning institutions to suspend classes in solidarity with families affected by the protests.
DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa yesterday confirmed the united opposition would be out in solidarity with the youth, even as he urged law enforcers to exercise restraint.
“The opposition will be standing in solidarity with the families of the young people who led the Gen Z revolution. Though the government has offered compensation, it is still not enough, as we need to continue fighting for justice,” he said.
“The arrogance in this regime is sickening. If you listen to the victims’ families, they are still hurting, still grieving and still waiting for justice. It is the right of these families to grieve and to do so in the best way they know how.”
Their calls have been amplified by civil society organisations and youth movements, which are mobilising vigils, memorial events and peaceful gatherings across several towns.
However, the government has maintained that Thursday remains a normal working day and warned against attempts to paralyse transport, business operations or public services.
President William Ruto has cautioned organisers against actions that could disrupt the country's stability, saying Kenyans have a constitutional right to demonstrate but must do so within the law.
Speaking on Friday during the National Productivity and Performance Conference at the Kenya School of Government in Nairobi, Ruto said the government would not tolerate acts of violence, destruction of property or interference with the rights of other citizens.
“It is right for every citizen who has an issue to petition or to protest and we must protect their right to do so,” he said.
“The one thing that is not going to happen is that people will be mobilised to destroy property or to cause chaos or mayhem. That will not happen.”
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has also issued a stern warning to organisers and participants, insisting that security agencies will act against anyone found planning unlawful activities.
Speaking during a Sunday church service at AIC Lang'ata in Nairobi, Murkomen said police had a duty to protect lives and property and would ensure normal operations continue across the country.
“If you choose to exercise your rights under Article 37 this week, do so peacefully, while respecting the right of children to go to school, the right of people to own and protect their property, and the rights and livelihoods of other citizens,” he said.
The CS also cautioned politicians against making inflammatory remarks and exploiting young people for political gain.
“You are driving other people's children and using them for political gain at the expense of their lives. Please let no one lose their life or property,” he added.
The competing messages from the opposition and the government have heightened anxiety among businesses, schools and public transport operators, many of whom are uncertain whether to proceed with normal operations.
Several associations, including the clergy, have urged authorities and organisers to ensure any activities remain peaceful to avoid a repeat of the chaos witnessed during previous demonstrations.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
Thursday's events are expected to test the country's political climate one year after the Gen Z protests shook the nation, forcing the government to withdraw controversial tax proposals and triggering a wider debate on governance, accountability and youth participation in public affairs.
Gen Z during the protests/File
