On Thursday, June 27, 2024, all routes to State House in Nairobi were sealed off, heavily guarded by anti-riot police in anticipation of scheduled protests. The demonstrators, coordinated through social media, were determined to march to State House to voice their grievances against President William Ruto’s administration.
Across Nairobi, anti-riot police stood ready to prevent the youth-led protesters from reaching Parliament or State House, following violent clashes earlier in the week during protests against the Finance Bill, resulting in fatalities. Security forces were adamant about barring protesters from accessing restricted areas, leading to diversions for motorists away from the blocked routes to State House.
Despite President Ruto’s announcement of not signing the Finance Bill, the youth, predominantly from Generation Z, remained resolute in proceeding with their demonstrations. Organizers underscored the protests as a means to express discontent with the Kenya Kwanza government.
However, the planned march to State House elicited mixed reactions among protesters, with concerns raised about potential risks to lives.
