By Faith Mondester
Nairobi — Kenyans gathered at All Saints Cathedral on Tuesday to honour the lives of young protesters who lost their lives last year during demonstrations against the controversial finance bill.
With national flags clutched tightly in their hands, mourners marched in solidarity, vowing to hold peaceful demonstrations on Wednesday in memory of the fallen. Grief-stricken families of the deceased joined religious leaders and youth activists in prayer, demanding justice and compensation.
Clergy from various faiths urged Gen Z to remain peaceful and steer clear of inflammatory rhetoric during demonstrations. They, in turn, called on the government to cease extrajudicial killings and uphold constitutional rights.
“The right to protest is enshrined in our Constitution,” said Sheikh Ibrahim Lithome during an appearance on Citizen TV. “Police officers must exercise restraint and stop blaming others for their excesses. Our leaders must listen to Kenyans and honour their promises.”
Youth leaders expressed frustration at a security apparatus they say often acts with impunity. Activist Willmark Gacheru condemned the deployment of force against peaceful demonstrators.
“Police officers are paid to protect, not to pummel the people,” Gacheru said. “It’s time for young people to unite and fight for a better Kenya. This is our mission—our duty.”
He warned fellow youth not to be manipulated by political interests, adding, “Let’s demand accountability—not just change.”
Mary Ngige, a law student at Mount Kenya University, pleaded with the president to pay attention to citizens’ concerns raised across social media platforms.
“Kenyans are the true custodians of power. The government must work for the people,” she said. “Leadership requires integrity, and every arm of government must fulfil its constitutional mandate.”
Veteran law scholar Professor Kivutha Kibwana echoed similar sentiments. He urged opposition leaders to champion citizen rights and help uphold democratic values.
“Some leaders refuse to be corrected, preferring to act unilaterally. That arrogance is a key trigger for these protests,” Kibwana said. “Young Kenyans are using demonstrations as a megaphone for their frustrations.”
He called on independent institutions to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour.