Opposition leaders on Wednesday, July 17, led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, laid wreaths and lit candles along Parliament Road in honour of Gen Z protesters who lost their lives during the June 25, 2024 demonstrations. The symbolic act came ahead of planned protests and amid heightened security around Parliament.
Flanked by several opposition politicians, Kalonzo said the tribute was meant to commemorate the young people who died fighting for their rights. “Today, we just want to remember these young people. We intend to lay wreaths in their memory,” he stated. He called for the day to be officially recognised as a national holiday to honour the fallen youth.
Despite police cordoning off all roads leading to Parliament and erecting razor wire barricades, the leaders managed to lay flowers at the barriers, marking the solemn occasion. Kalonzo commended Kenyans who observed the day by staying at home, saying it was a powerful statement of solidarity. “It truly feels like a public holiday—there are barricades everywhere,” he remarked.
Security remains tight around Parliament Square, with officers on high alert to prevent demonstrators from accessing the legislature. This follows last year’s historic protest, where thousands of Gen Z demonstrators stormed Parliament, overwhelming security and occupying the National Assembly Chambers. During that incident, several youth lost their lives, and the country witnessed unprecedented scenes as protesters took meals at the MPs’ canteen and made their way into restricted areas.
National Assembly Deputy Minority Leader Robert Mbui criticized the heavy police presence, arguing that Parliament is a public institution. “Parliament can be visited by any citizen even the State House can be visited by any citizen,” Mbui stated, underscoring citizens’ right to access their government.
As the memory of the 2024 protests continues to stir national reflection, opposition leaders insist that the sacrifices made by the youth must not be forgotten. Whether or not the official ceremony proceeds, the message from today’s tribute is clear Kenya’s Gen Z movement has left a lasting mark on the country’s democratic landscape.
