Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino stirred excitement in the Nairobi Central Business District on Wednesday, July 25, after joining Gen Z protestors in their anti-government demonstrations. The protests marked the first anniversary of the deadly June 25, 2024, anti-finance bill demonstrations that saw at least 60 people lose their lives.
In a widely circulated video on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Babu Owino could be seen being hoisted onto the shoulders of enthusiastic demonstrators, a clear sign of his popularity among the protesting youth. His appearance triggered jubilation, with chants echoing through the streets as he joined the Gen Z-led movement that has continued to demand government accountability and reform.
Speaking earlier, Babu urged the youth not to relent in their pursuit of justice and reform. “What I will tell my Gen Z brothers and sisters is to fight on, soldier on. It is not over until it is over,” he said. He further reaffirmed his solidarity with the movement: “On a scale of between zero to 10, I’m with you at 11, supporting you at 101 per cent. Do it, make us proud, we are with you.”
The city witnessed heightened police activity, with major roads leading to Parliament blocked in anticipation of unrest. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja had earlier warned protestors to steer clear of protected government installations, including Parliament and State House. “Protesters planning marches on June 25 should avoid unauthorized areas. Officers will remain vigilant,” Kanja cautioned.
The tension mirrored last year’s protests, when demonstrators stormed Parliament, breached security, and briefly occupied the National Assembly Chambers. That historic event ended in tragedy and sparked nationwide outrage.
On Wednesday, most businesses in the city centre remained closed as a precaution, while City Hall recalled inspectorate personnel and deployed them in uniform to support police operations. In Kitengela, police dispersed early gatherings before 7 a.m.
Despite the security clampdown, the turnout reflected a growing political consciousness among Kenya’s youth, with Babu Owino’s presence symbolizing a rare political endorsement of the Gen Z-led resistance.
