As Kenya marked one year since the deadly anti-Finance Bill protests of June 25, 2024, President William Ruto was in Kilifi County on Wednesday attending the funeral of Mzee Gideon Mung’aro, father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro.
The burial brought together political leaders from across the divide, including Azimio leader Raila Odinga, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy Hassan Joho. The show of unity came amid a tense national atmosphere on a day etched in memory for the dozens killed in last year’s protests.
Earlier in the day, President Ruto met at State House with Sultan Ali Allana, envoy of His Highness Prince Rahim Al Hussaini Aga Khan. He praised the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) for its long-standing investment in Kenya’s health and education sectors and extended an invitation to the Aga Khan to visit Kenya. During the visit, the government plans to formalize recognition of the Ismaili Imamat and confer the Aga Khan with the Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart (C.G.H.), the country’s highest civilian honor.
Meanwhile, in Nairobi and other major towns, security was heightened as activists and citizens took to the streets to mark the anniversary of the 2024 protests, now dubbed “Youth Transparency Day.” The protests last year had erupted in opposition to the Finance Bill and sparked a reckoning over police brutality, governance, and state accountability.
Police mounted roadblocks at key entry points into the Nairobi CBD, including along Jogoo Road, forcing thousands of commuters to walk into the city. Government buildings were surrounded with razor wire and guarded by heavily armed officers, with approaches to State House and Parliament sealed off.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja oversaw operations from Harambee House. Kanja, in a Tuesday briefing flanked by DCI boss Amin Mohamed and GSU Commandant Ranson Lolmodoni, warned demonstrators to stay clear of restricted areas, while assuring the public of lawful policing.
“We shall provide adequate security for both protesters and non-protesters,” said Nairobi Police Commander George Seda, calling for peaceful demonstrations. “It is a working day, businesses, shops, and hotels will be open.”
This year’s commemorations have drawn attention to broader demands, ranging from justice for victims of last year’s violence to systemic reforms in policing and governance. Civil society organizations renewed calls for accountability, compensation, and an end to state impunity.
No major incidents had been reported by early afternoon, though security forces remained on high alert throughout the day.
Written By Rodney Mbua
