Human rights activist and Gen Z mobilizer Hanifa has expressed growing concern for her safety ahead of the June 25 protests, which mark the one-year anniversary of nationwide demonstrations. In an emotional and defiant statement, she revealed that she’s received chilling warnings suggesting that she’s being targeted by political actors seeking to use her as a pawn in a broader agenda.
Hanifa, known for her vocal stance and frontline presence during past protests, stated that she has no intentions of backing down despite the growing pressure. According to her, unidentified groups may be plotting to use her as “collateral” in order to sabotage or discredit the youth-led movement. Despite this, she reaffirmed her commitment to the cause, stating plainly: “I will be there. Lazima.”
Her family, she disclosed, has been frantically calling her in recent days, deeply shaken by the threats and intelligence she says she has received. The concern from her loved ones has weighed heavily on her, but Hanifa made it clear that she’s resolved to continue the fight. “They’ve been calling nonstop,” she said. “But there’s no turning back right now.”
Hanifa also took time to address those accusing her and fellow activists of being sponsored or manipulated by external forces. She fiercely dismissed those allegations, daring anyone with proof to come forward. According to her, these accusations are nothing more than desperate attempts to undermine a genuine movement rooted in the frustrations of ordinary citizens.
“If it were about money, most of us would have given up a long time ago,” she said, pointing out that personal attacks and smear campaigns have become routine. “They’ve tried to tarnish my name in every way possible, but each time I’ve been vindicated.”
She emphasized that the protests are about basic human dignity and justice, not political gain. In her words, “This is a fight for our lives. People have nothing left to lose.” According to Hanifa, the frustration and despair of everyday Kenyans have reached a boiling point, and the demonstrations are a reflection of that collective exhaustion.
Her boldness and resilience have drawn admiration from many Kenyans online, who flooded social media with messages of solidarity and prayers for her safety. Some praised her courage, while others urged her to stay peaceful and avoid confrontation with authorities.
Hanifa has previously experienced firsthand the dangers that come with being on the frontline. During a past protest in Nairobi calling for justice for Albert Ojwang—a young man who died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody—she was assaulted by a thief posing as a protester. Her phone was stolen in the incident, which she later recounted as both physically and emotionally distressing.
Despite all this, she has remained a steady voice in the struggle, often highlighting the plight of disenfranchised youth and calling for accountability. With this year’s June 25 protest expected to draw massive numbers, Hanifa’s public declarations signal both the personal risk she faces and the unwavering spirit driving the movement.
As calls for reform and justice grow louder, Hanifa’s story serves as a stark reminder of the price some pay for activism—and the strength it takes to stand firm when the cost is high.
