Kisii town witnessed a powerful show of unity and activism on Wednesday morning as hundreds of youth-led protesters took to the streets, joining the growing wave of nationwide anti-government demonstrations. Marking one year since the 2024 Finance Bill protests, the demonstrators gathered in large numbers, waving Kenyan flags, blowing whistles, and chanting anti-establishment slogans.
The protests, largely organised and driven by Generation Z, echoed sentiments of frustration over economic policies and governance issues that continue to impact millions of Kenyans. Many participants were seen carrying green leaves and tree branches symbols of peace while others raised their hands in synchronised chants that called for accountability and reform.
Demonstrators moved peacefully through Kisii’s town centre in an orderly fashion. Despite the large turnout, no immediate incidents of violence or clashes were reported. The calm and coordinated nature of the protest highlighted the youth’s determination to express their dissent through peaceful means.
Kisii becomes the latest in a string of towns and cities to experience mass mobilisation. Earlier reports indicated similar protests in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret, with many urban centres showing signs of unrest or shutdowns. In Nairobi, thousands of residents were forced to walk to the Central Business District (CBD) after police and security forces barred vehicles from accessing the area. Most businesses in the capital remained closed in anticipation of the unrest.
In Kiambu County, police responded quickly to a bonfire that had been lit at Mama Ngina stage in Kinoo, an incident believed to be linked to the ongoing protests. Meanwhile, Kisumu City, which had been expected to host major demonstrations, saw minimal turnout and slowed activity early Wednesday morning.
The protests have been largely attributed to youth dissatisfaction with government policies, particularly tax reforms introduced in the Finance Bill. Gen Z has emerged as a formidable voice in Kenya’s political landscape, utilising social media and digital platforms to coordinate protests and share real-time updates.
As the demonstrations continue to gain momentum, authorities are closely monitoring the situation amid calls for dialogue and restraint.
