Nyanza region sees largely low-key June 25 demonstrations

By and , June 26, 2025

The Nyanza region experienced mixed reactions yesterday as Gen Z protesters marked the anniversary of the June 25, 2024, demonstrations that left scores killed by police during anti-government protests.

Unlike previous demonstrations characterised by chaos and police battles, Kisumu and Homa Bay counties remained largely peaceful. Business and transport activities continued normally with minimal disruptions.

In Kisumu city, the traditional protest hotspot of Kondele showed unusual normalcy, with no signs of gatherings by mid-morning. Most shops in the Central Business District remained open, though owners stayed cautious. Government offices, supermarkets, and banks operated normally, while some small retail outlets closed, fearing disruptions.

Homa Bay town witnessed low-key demonstrations as some Gen Z protesters took to the streets in solidarity with colleagues nationwide.

In Homa Bay, protest leaders Job Otulo and Henry Ochieng expressed displeasure with the government’s handling of their constitutional rights.

“We are demonstrating to show solidarity with colleagues across the country who condemn the brutality of police on protesters. We’re not going to stop any time soon,” Otulo said.

The protesters called on opposition leaders to stop exploiting their demonstrations for political gain and threatened to withdraw support for the Broad-Based Government if police excesses continue.

Ochieng highlighted the death of Albert Ojwang, who died in custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. “Many educated youths don’t have jobs. We’re tired of the government, which doesn’t understand the cries of young people,” he said.

Violence in Kisii

Contrasting the relative calm elsewhere, Kisii town experienced significant disruption as protesters barricaded roads with stones and lit tire bonfires, demanding justice for victims killed last year.

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