Gen Z protests anniversary: Police arrest activists outside parliament buildings
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, June 25, 2026Several activists were arrested by police outside the Parliament precincts in Nairobi on Thursday as Kenyans marked the anniversary of the historic June 25, 2024, Gen Z protests.
The arrests occurred amid heightened security around Parliament Buildings, where hundreds of police officers had been deployed and major roads leading to the city centre were barricaded ahead of planned commemorative marches.
Authorities maintained a heavy presence around key government installations as activists, opposition leaders and families of victims sought to honour those killed during last year’s anti-government demonstrations.
Police moved in to detain some activists who had gathered near the parliamentary barricades as tensions remained high in the capital. The commemorative events were organised to remember victims of the 2024 Gen Z-led protests and renew calls for accountability over deaths, injuries and alleged human rights violations linked to the demonstrations
Police disrupt opposition leaders’ march
Earlier on, police disrupted a symbolic march by opposition leaders and civil society activists who had gathered in Nairobi to honour victims of the June 25, 2024, Gen Z protests.
Through a public address system, officers were heard repeatedly warning the crowd to vacate the area
“Kwa mara ya mwisho, watu waondoke mara moja,” the police ordered.
Genesis of protests
On June 25, 2024, thousands of protesters breached Parliament grounds during demonstrations against the Finance Bill, with parts of the parliamentary complex being set ablaze as security forces clashed with demonstrators. The unprecedented events left dozens dead and hundreds injured, sparking nationwide outrage and ultimately forcing President William Ruto to withdraw the controversial legislation.
This year’s commemorations have been marked by extensive security operations across Nairobi. Police erected roadblocks on major routes leading into the capital, while businesses in the central business district remained largely closed amid fears of unrest. Government officials insisted the measures were aimed at maintaining public order and preventing criminal activity during the demonstrations.
Families of victims and human rights activists have continued to demand justice, arguing that those responsible for killings and abuses during the 2024 protests should be held accountable. The anniversary marches have also served as a platform for renewed calls for reforms and greater protection of constitutional rights, including the right to peaceful assembly.
The commemorations come against a backdrop of lingering public anger over police conduct and unresolved grievances stemming from the 2024 protests, which transformed into one of the most consequential youth-led movements in Kenya’s recent history.