Opposition leaders Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka have jointly declared June 25, 2025, a symbolic public holiday in honour of Generation Z protesters who lost their lives during the 2024 anti-government demonstrations. The announcement was made during roadside rallies in Voi, Taita Taveta County, on Saturday, June 7.
The leaders called on Kenyans to stay away from work on that day as a sign of solidarity with the youth who were killed during the mass protests against the controversial Finance Bill, 2024. The demonstrations, largely driven by digitally mobilised Gen Z protesters, peaked on June 25, 2024, when citizens stormed Parliament demanding accountability and rejecting what they called exploitative taxation. Security forces opened fire, resulting in the reported deaths of at least five demonstrators.
Kalonzo, while addressing the crowd, declared that June 25 would henceforth be marked as Gen Z Liberation Day to honour the bravery and sacrifice of the youth who led the historic protests. “June 25 will be a liberation day to commemorate the sacrifice of our Gen Zs who sought to liberate this country,” he said.
Rigathi Gachagua, a former Deputy President turned opposition figure, echoed Kalonzo’s sentiments, urging the nation to come together in remembrance. The leaders emphasised that this gesture is not only symbolic but also a step towards recognising the role of youth in shaping Kenya’s political future.
Despite lacking the legal mandate to declare a national holiday a function reserved for the Interior Cabinet Secretary the opposition’s call could significantly disrupt normal activities across major towns. In the past, similar declarations have seen cities like Nairobi brought to a standstill.
The Gen Z-led protests of 2024 represented a new wave of civic activism, defined by decentralised leadership and digital coordination. Their demands ranged from economic reforms and employment opportunities to greater political accountability.
While the government has yet to respond to the opposition’s latest declaration, the June 25 commemoration is expected to draw national attention and reignite discussions about youth inclusion in governance and policy-making.
