Kisumu remained peaceful on Wednesday as Kenyans marked the first anniversary of the deadly June 25, 2024 protests, which erupted nationwide last year over the controversial Finance Bill and broader governance grievances.
Unlike Nairobi and other towns where security was tight and demonstrations disrupted daily life, business in Kisumu’s Central Business District (CBD) went on uninterrupted. Shops in Kachok, Kondele, and the bus park remained open throughout the day, and public service vehicles operated as usual, though a few transporters cited caution and temporarily suspended operations.
Even in Kondele, a neighborhood known for its political activism and past protest flashpoints, residents carried on with normal routines, with no visible signs of unrest.
However, tensions briefly flared in the afternoon when a small group of human rights activists convened a press briefing at Jamhuri Park, near the Kisumu Central Deputy County Commissioner’s office. Reading from a prepared statement, the activists condemned alleged ongoing human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, while urging the government to respect civil liberties.
“We will not be silenced,” declared one activist. “The struggle for justice must continue regardless of intimidation.”
Shortly after the address began, a group of youths on motorbikes stormed the venue, interrupting the event and scattering the activists. The youths accused the organizers of attempting to incite unrest, insisting they would not tolerate any demonstrations they perceived as destructive to the city’s peace and property.
“We must protect our city’s peace and infrastructure,” one of them shouted as the group broke up the gathering.
Despite the disruption, no injuries were reported, and calm was swiftly restored. Police maintained a minimal presence throughout the day, reportedly monitoring developments from a distance.
Governor Anyang Nyongo in a press briefing, thanked the residents of Kisumu for maintaining the peace during the protests.
”I wish to thank the residents of Kisumu County for maintaining peace today during the activities commemorating the first anniversary of the Gen-Z protests. The streets in Kisumu City and in other towns in our sub-counties remained relatively calm throughout the day!”
Written By Rodney Mbua
