Messages from leaders as youths warm up for June 25 anniversary for 63 Killed last year

Leaders from various political factions have urged the government to allow Gen Zs to peacefully protest without hindrances.

ODM Leader Raila Odinga, Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, People’s Liberation Party Leader Martha Karua, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Hamisi, and former Chief Justice David Maraga are among the notable leaders who have issued messages to the government ahead of the protests.

“There is no need for the government to stop the people from demonstrating. Those who want to demonstrate should come out and do so, from this place to this place. We want tomorrow’s demonstration to be peaceful, and that is the stance of ODM,” Raila Odinga has stated.

On his part, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who was seen in the streets early today joining other Kenyans to commemorate the first anniversary leading in laying wreaths outside the Parliament, said today is a symbolic moment for the fallen youths who were killed in the 2024 June 25 protests.

Kalonzo declared that today would be a public holiday for the same.

“If anyone doubted that June 25 would be a public holiday, Ruto has indeed confirmed it. Let there be peaceful demonstrations across the country. The United Opposition will be there marching in honor of our fallen heroes,” Kalonzo said.

DAP-K Party leader Eugene Wamalwa highlighted the significance of the day, describing it as a global moment of reckoning for Kenya’s democracy.

“The world is watching, and we as Kenya’s Loyal Opposition will stand by the Gen Z and all demonstrators who wish to come out to honor the first anniversary of the Gen Z revolution and demand Justice for all victims of Police brutality,” he said.

People Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua shared a brief message.

“Calm before the storm,” She shared.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti sent a message of encouragement, particularly to the young people who are expected to form the majority of participants.

“Sending hugs and motherly love; be safe, my children,” she said.

On the other hand, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi emphasized the need for citizens to take personal responsibility for the country’s future.

He called on all Kenyans to show up and take part in the protests.

“We must not just support the youth demonstration; we must all be in town tomorrow. For Kenya to be better, all our efforts, our time, and our concerted energies must be applied. A better Kenya is good for all of us,” Hamisi appealed to Kenyans.

Emeritus Chief Justice David Maraga, who declared last week to be the Gen Z presidential candidate, has urged the youths to adhere strictly to the law and prioritize safety, further emphasizing the importance of lawful expression.

“To all those joining the march, we urge you to abide by the law and be aware of the contacts to call in case of emergencies as provided by the Law Society of Kenya. We, the people, stay committed to peace and justice. To reset this country to the rule of law, restoring utu and the value for human life, and rebuilding our institutions,” Maraga stated.

The youths are expected in the streets of the Nairobi CBD today to mark the first anniversary of 63 youths who were killed during the anti-finance bill protest last year.

Political leaders and religious leaders have joined the youths in championing good governance since then, putting the Kenya Kwanza on toes.

On their part, religious leaders led by the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB) yesterday called on young Kenyans to exercise their right to peaceful protest within the law, while sharply criticising state actions that have undermined legitimate demonstrations.

In a joint statement, the bishops decried the excessive use of force by police and alleged collusion with criminal elements during last year’s June 25 protests.

“As bishops, we appeal to the youth to exercise their rights peacefully and within the law,” KCCB Chairman Rev. Maurice Muhatia said.

They noted that violence against unarmed protesters not only shattered families but also eroded public trust.

“We have witnessed the harassment, abduction, and in some cases, killing of young people whose only offence was raising their voice for accountability and justice,” Muhatia added.

The Bishops also condemned what they described as “selective application of the law” and warned that such actions weaken the nation’s moral fabric.