A segment of Kenyan youth has vowed to proceed with planned protests on Thursday, describing it as their final attempt to liberate the country from the grip of the Kenya Kwanza regime.
Led by outspoken political activist Kasmuel McOure, the youth made this declaration during a press conference in Nairobi on Wednesday. They announced that the August 8th mega-protest, now dubbed ‘Nane Nane,’ will be the most significant demonstration in recent memory.
McOure stated that the protest would culminate in a march to State House, where the youth, under the Gen Z banner, intend to demand the removal of President William Ruto, whom they accuse of failing to address their concerns.
“Nane Nane will be our final day in the streets. We will take to the streets because the Kenya Kwanza regime has stripped us of everything. We have clearly stated our demands: we want a country that provides us with land, a country that offers education, a country where children do not die from preventable diseases. Tomorrow marks a pivotal moment in our history,” he declared.
“Tomorrow, as we march towards a new Republic, I assure you that the spirit of the Kenyan youth remains unbroken. We shall march for our rights, and tomorrow we will liberate this country!”
McOure also condemned the state’s security forces for using excessive force against protesters, warning that the youth will not tolerate armed police officers in civilian clothes deployed to disperse them.
“I issue a stern warning to the police, which is now acting as a force, not a service—if we encounter unidentified men in civilian clothing, riding in government vehicles, we will treat them as robbers, as thieves, as colonizers,” he stated.
“I assure all Kenyans that our gathering today is not in vain. We assure you that we will not allow these rogue elements on our streets. It has reached a point in this country where even foreigners are wielding arms on our streets.”
These remarks come as Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli warned that the planned anti-government demonstrations could be infiltrated by criminals, posing a threat to the country’s security.
Masengeli noted that intelligence reports indicate such risks, and he emphasized that officers will not hesitate to engage with those who intend to cause trouble.
“The initial demonstrations held in June were peaceful, but subsequent protests escalated into riots, with looters destroying and stealing property,” he said.
“Our intelligence reports suggest that there are security threats associated with tomorrow’s demonstrations, with criminals planning to infiltrate and commit further crimes. In response, we have ensured the deployment of adequate personnel.”
Masengeli urged the public to remain vigilant during the protests and cautioned protesters against trespassing on protected areas such as the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and State House.
“Those planning to exercise their right to participate in the protests should do so within the bounds of the law,” he advised.
“Kenya is the only country we have. Each of us has a responsibility to keep it safe.”
