Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has joined Kenyans in marking the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-government protests, paying tribute to the young demonstrators who lost their lives during the historic nationwide movement.
In a heartfelt message shared on his social media platforms on Thursday, June 25, 2026, the outspoken legislator remembered the victims as courageous young Kenyans whose sacrifices should never be forgotten.
“Today, Kenyans go to the streets to commemorate all the comrades we lost on June 25th, 2024. My heart still breaks for all the young souls we lost. Forever in our hearts,” Owino said.
The Nairobi lawmaker called on Kenyans to honour the memory of those who died during the demonstrations, noting that their courage and determination left a lasting mark on the country’s democratic journey.
His message echoed sentiments expressed by many citizens across the country who have used the anniversary to reflect on the events of June 2024 and celebrate the role played by young people in demanding accountability, good governance, and economic justice.
The June 25, 2024 protests emerged as one of the most significant youth-led movements in Kenya's recent history, with thousands of young people taking to the streets to oppose proposed tax measures contained in the Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrations attracted global attention and ultimately forced the government to withdraw the controversial legislation.
As commemorative activities unfolded across the country, several leaders, activists, and civil society groups also paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the protests, while renewing calls for justice and accountability.
The anniversary comes amid heightened security measures in Nairobi and other major towns. On Thursday morning, transport services were disrupted after police sealed off key entry points into Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) ahead of planned Gen Z commemoration activities.
The restrictions led to heavy traffic congestion and forced many commuters to walk long distances as security agencies sought to manage crowds expected to participate in remembrance events.
Despite the disruptions, organizers of the commemoration have maintained that the day is intended to honour the victims and reflect on the significance of the Gen Z movement in shaping Kenya's political discourse.
Speaking during an interview with Phil Director, governance observers noted that the legacy of the 2024 protests continues to influence national conversations on accountability, public participation, and youth engagement in governance.
As Kenyans remember those who lost their lives, calls have also intensified for justice for victims, compensation for affected families, and reforms aimed at preventing future violations during public demonstrations.
