“A Nation in Mourning, A Generation in Motion”: Kenya’s Youth-Led Protests Demand Justice

On June 25, 2025, Kenya was once again shaken by a wave of youth-led protests that swept across 23 of the country’s 47 counties. What began as a solemn commemoration of the previous year’s anti-tax demonstrations quickly turned into a national tragedy. At least 16 people were killed and over 400 injured, according to Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (Al Jazeera 2025).

⚖️ Why Are Kenyans Protesting?

The protests were organized to mark the one-year anniversary of the 2024 demonstrations, during which more than 60 people were killed by security forces. Those protests were sparked by a controversial finance bill that proposed sweeping tax hikes. This year’s demonstrations, however, have evolved into a broader movement demanding an end to police brutality, government corruption, and economic inequality (Musambi 2025).

Protesters carried placards with the faces of last year’s victims and chanted “Ruto must go,” directly challenging President William Ruto’s administration. Many young Kenyans feel betrayed by a government they say has failed to deliver on promises of reform and opportunity.

🔥 What Sparked the Latest Outrage?

The immediate catalyst was the death of 31-year-old blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang, who died in police custody after criticizing a senior officer. His death, followed by the shooting of a civilian during a protest, reignited public fury and added urgency to the demonstrations (UN News 2025).

🚨 Government Response and Media Suppression

The government’s response was swift and forceful. Riot police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and reportedly live ammunition to disperse crowds. In Nairobi, roads were barricaded, and government buildings were sealed off with razor wire. Protesters set fire to at least two police stations, and looting was reported in several neighborhoods (Musambi 2025).

Authorities also moved to suppress media coverage. Kenyan broadcaster KTN was taken off the air, and Telegram—widely used by protest organizers—was restricted. These actions have raised serious concerns about freedom of the press and digital censorship (Al Jazeera 2025).

🧠 Why This Moment Matters

This is more than a protest—it is a generational reckoning. Kenya’s youth, who make up the majority of the population, are demanding a future that reflects their dignity and aspirations. As one protester told reporters, “We came in peace, but they’re shooting at us” (Al Jazeera 2025).

The protests also test the strength of Kenya’s democratic institutions. The use of force, media blackouts, and internet restrictions challenge the country’s commitment to freedom of expression and the right to peaceful assembly.

🕊️ What Comes Next?

President Ruto has urged protesters not to “destroy” the country, but many argue that the real destruction lies in unchecked corruption, economic hardship, and state violence. With tensions still high and more demonstrations expected, the government faces a critical choice: engage in meaningful reform or risk further alienation of its youth and civil society.

📣 Final Thoughts

Kenya’s protests are not just about politics—they are about people. About the right to live without fear, to speak without punishment, and to dream without limits. The world is watching, and so is history.

Let us not forget the names, the faces, and the voices behind the numbers. Let us listen—not just to the cries of protest, but to the call for justice.

📚 Works Cited

Al Jazeera. “Sixteen Killed, Hundreds Injured, in Antigovernment Kenyan Protests.” Al Jazeera, June 25, 2025. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/25/thousands-rally-in-kenya-to-mark-anniversary-of-antitax-demonstrations..

Musambi, Evelyne. “Death Toll from Kenya’s Anti-Government Protests Rises to 16.” ABC News, June 26, 2025. https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/death-toll-kenyas-anti-government-protests-rises-16-123226075..

UN News. “UN Calls for Restraint after Deadly Kenya Protests.” United Nations News, June 26, 2025. https://news.un.org/en/story/2025/06/1164966..