Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has lauded Kenyan Gen Zs for igniting a lasting change in the country through protests.

In a statement via X account on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, Omtatah stated that the June 25, 2024, demonstrations marked a turning point in Kenya’s activism.

“The Gen Z protests of 25th June marked a turning point in Kenya’s activism. Despite autocratic leadership, the protests ignited lasting change,” Omtatah said.

Omtatah on protests

The vocal activist went further to state that the Gen Z movement awakened the country by reminding Kenyans of the power to demand accountability and fight for justice.

In addition, Omtatah honoured those who lost their lives during the protest adding that Kenyans will keep hope alive for a Kenya governed by the rule of law and the Constitution in memory of their legacy.

“This movement awakened Kenya, reminding us of our power to demand accountability and fight for justice. For those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle, we honour their legacy by keeping hope alive for a Kenya governed by the rule of law and the Constitution. Let’s stay vigilant, united, and resilient in building a just and prosperous future. Change is happening, and together, we’ll see it through,” he added.

Church bishops

He further commended the church bishops for calling out the national government over corruption and poor governance and rejecting donations from President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.

“From church bishops rejecting dubious donations to citizens boldly confronting corruption, public theft, and poor governance at all levels, the impact is undeniable,” Omtatah stated.

In a statement dated Monday, November 18, 2024, Archbishop Most Rev Philip A. Anyolo stated that the donation made to Soweto Catholic was unconstitutional and the church would not accept the funds.

“Public Fundraising Appeals Bill 2024, under Section 10(2), it is deemed that any person who solicits or receives money or a benefit conducts a fundraising appeal, regardless of whether the representation made was direct or indirect.

“Such fundraising appeals require a permit in accordance with the bill. Consequently, the donations made to Soweto Catholic Church on Sunday, November 17, 2024, are in violation of these directives and the law,” Archbishop Anyolo said in a statement released on Monday, November 18, 2024, at night.

The Gen Z protests of 25th June marked a turning point in Kenya’s activism. Despite autocratic leadership, the protests ignited lasting change. From church bishops rejecting dubious donations to citizens boldly confronting corruption, public theft, and poor governance at all…

— Okiya Omtatah Okoiti (@OkiyaOmtatah) November 20, 2024

Anti-govt protest

On June 25, 2024, protesters breached the parliament causing massive destruction and vandalism within buildings.

Several protesters were reportedly shot during the confrontation. Inside Parliament, chairs in the lounge area were turned upside-down, windows shattered, and walls destroyed.

Protests were not limited to Nairobi; similar demonstrations erupted across the country in Nakuru, Mombasa, Nyeri, Kisumu, Kakamega, and Meru, among other regions.

The situation remains tense as police resort to violence on the anti-tax protesters.

The demonstrators are demanding a complete rejection of the Finance Bill 2024, calling for accountability in government, an end to corruption, and the publication of all state debts.