Nairobi, June 26, 2025 — At least eight people have been killed and hundreds injured as nationwide protests erupted across Kenya, marking the first anniversary of the historic 2024 "Youth Reawakening" demonstrations. The protests, led primarily by Generation Z activists, turned violent as police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse crowds in major cities.

What Sparked the Protests?

The demonstrations began peacefully, with thousands gathering in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and other cities to commemorate last year’s mass mobilization against the controversial Finance Bill 2024. The bill, which proposed steep tax increases on basic goods, triggered outrage among young Kenyans, leading to widespread protests and the storming of Parliament on June 25, 2024.

This year’s anniversary protests were fueled by ongoing frustrations over economic hardship, political accountability, and persistent police brutality. Many protesters also voiced anger over a new Finance Bill 2025, which introduces additional taxes on essential items.

Police Response and Casualties

Human rights organizations, including Amnesty Kenya and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), have confirmed that police used live ammunition against protesters. Most of the reported deaths were caused by gunshots, and over 400 people have been treated for injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to the effects of tear gas.

Security forces had a heavy presence around government buildings, especially Parliament, and imposed restrictions on media coverage. Several TV stations were taken off air, and live broadcasts were banned during the height of the unrest.

Gen Z Takes the Lead

The protests were largely organized through social media platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram. Young Kenyans, many of whom were involved in last year’s demonstrations, coordinated actions and shared real-time updates despite government attempts to limit their online activities.

Political analysts say that Generation Z’s continued activism signals a shift in Kenya’s political landscape. “If the government does not engage with these young voices, street protests may become a permanent feature of our politics,” said analyst Kelvin Ochol.

As investigations begin into allegations of excessive force by police, civil society groups are calling for accountability and justice for those killed and injured. The anniversary protests have reignited debates about economic reforms, police conduct, and the future of youth-led activism in Kenya.

For many, the events of June 2025 are a stark reminder that the issues that sparked last year’s protests remain unresolved. As one activist put it, “We are still fighting for our future.”

Sources: Amnesty Kenya, Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, local media reports, eyewitness accounts.