By Bonface Mulyungi

The young man whose dramatic entry into Parliament during the 2024 Gen Z protests became one of the defining images of the anti-government demonstrations has resurfaced after spending nearly two years in hiding.

Chama, who shot to national attention after viral videos showed him inside the National Assembly chambers during the chaotic Finance Bill protests, says his life changed completely after the demonstrations that shook the country.

In the now-famous clips, Chama was seen standing inside Parliament chambers, addressing the Speaker’s seat while chanting anti-government slogans moments after protesters overwhelmed security officers and breached the parliamentary precincts.

The June 2024 protests, largely led by Gen Z activists, erupted across the country over the controversial Finance Bill 2024, with demonstrators accusing the government of burdening Kenyans with punitive taxes amid the high cost of living.

The protests escalated dramatically when demonstrators stormed Parliament as lawmakers debated the Bill, forcing a political crisis for the Kenya Kwanza administration.

After the protests, Chama vanished from public view as authorities launched investigations into those accused of leading the demonstrations and unlawfully entering Parliament buildings.

Speaking publicly for the first time since disappearing, Chama revealed he had spent months moving from place to place while avoiding public attention over fears of arrest and persecution following the deadly crackdown on protesters.

He said the pressure and uncertainty made it difficult for him to rebuild his life or even return home freely.

“During that time, the lives of many Kenyans changed forever; some were killed and other abudcuted. For me, I have been in hiding for almost one year and nine months. Now I need a change. I need to get on with my life. I need to start a new life that has no fear,” Chama said.

“I cannot stay in hiding forever. We want to change this country, and we can’t change it by hiding. As Chama, I have decided to start a new life.”

Despite the fear, Chama says he no longer wants to continue hiding.

The protester also disclosed that he had sought legal support from Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, one of the vocal politicians who defended arrested Gen Z protesters following the demonstrations.

Babu Owino reportedly expressed readiness to represent Chama in court if authorities decide to pursue legal action against him.

The legislator argued that many young people who joined the protests were driven by frustrations over unemployment, economic hardship and rising taxes.

“You deserve a chance in life because you are a legend. You managed to enter Parliament, and you had genuine reasons why you came to Parliament,” MP Babu said.

The Gen Z demonstrations triggered a heated national debate on governance, police conduct and taxation, with human rights groups accusing security agencies of using excessive force against protesters.

The government, however, defended the operation, insisting security agencies acted to restore order after Parliament buildings were breached and vandalised.

The unrest eventually pushed the government to withdraw the Finance Bill.