By TCPN Security Correspondent
NAIROBI – As Kenya approaches the first anniversary of the landmark June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests, citizens across the country are preparing for Wednesday’s planned #OccupyEverywhere peaceful demonstrations.
A mass demonstration is already planned for June 25, marking the one-year anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z uprising that saw massive protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
The upcoming protests come amid renewed tensions following recent incidents of police brutality and youth-led resistance, with a government that seems determined to carry on with business as usual.
Recent events, including the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody, the blatant shooting of a hawker selling face masks, and violent organized gangs patrolling the city have reignited public anger and calls for accountability.
Opposition leaders have declared June 25 an unofficial national holiday to celebrate the new freedoms brought by the Gen Z movement and honour the victims of police killings and forced disappearances.
The original protests culminated when protesters stormed the Parliament buildings on June 25, 2024, leading to clashes with police that resulted in at least 22 deaths and numerous injuries.
The movement has been characterized by its rejection of traditional gatekeepers – political parties, NGOs, foreign donors – and mobilization around economic justice and dignity, moving beyond ethnic patronage and elite negotiation.
Safety Preparations for Protesters
Before Leaving Home
- Inform trusted contacts of your planned route and expected return time
- Carry minimal identification – avoid bringing valuable items or excessive cash
- Dress appropriately in comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothes that cover your skin
- Prepare a small bag with water, basic first aid supplies, and emergency contacts written on paper
- Charge your phone fully and consider bringing a portable charger
During the Protest
- Stay in groups and avoid isolated areas
- Follow designated routes and assembly points announced by organizers
- Remain peaceful and avoid confrontational behavior
- Stay hydrated and take breaks when needed
- Keep emergency contacts accessible and ensure someone knows your whereabouts
Health and Legal Precautions
- Bring any necessary medications you may need during extended periods outdoors
- Know your rights regarding peaceful assembly under Kenya’s constitution
- Have legal aid contacts readily available
- Consider wearing identifying clothing for family members to locate you if separated
For Non-Participants, Be Safe at Home and Work
Business and Commerce
- Monitor local announcements for potential business disruptions
- Adjust operating hours if your establishment is near protest routes
- Secure premises and ensure staff safety protocols are in place
- Have emergency contacts for security services if needed
Transportation and Movement
- Plan alternative routes for essential travel
- Allow extra time for journeys as traffic may be affected
- Use ride-sharing apps cautiously and check real-time updates
- Consider working from home if your workplace is in potential protest areas
Family Safety
- Keep children informed age-appropriately about the situation
- Ensure school pickup/drop-off plans account for potential disruptions
- Stock essential supplies in case of temporary access issues to shops
- Maintain communication with family members throughout the day
National Police Service Preparations
The Nairobi police have officially acknowledged the June 25 demonstrations and pledged to “provide enough security” for the event, urging protesters to maintain peace throughout the memorial march. This represents a markedly different approach from previous protests, where security forces were accused of excessive force.
However, tensions remain high following recent incidents. A court has given police 15 days to complete investigations of two police officers suspected of shooting and wounding a hawker during recent street protests over blogger Albert Ojwang’s death in custody.
The police deployment strategy appears to focus on:
- Crowd control units positioned at key locations including Parliament, State House, and major government buildings
- Traffic management to minimize disruption while allowing peaceful assembly
- Medical support coordination with Kenya Red Cross and local hospitals
- Intelligence monitoring of social media and organizing activities
Previous protests saw Kenyan police fire tear gas at protesters, bystanders and medics, arbitrarily arrest and beat peaceful protesters, and fire live ammunition at crowds in violation of international human rights law.
Government Stance
The government has declared that June 25 will be a normal work day, refusing to acknowledge opposition calls for it to be treated as a public holiday. President William Ruto’s administration appears to be taking a cautious approach, balancing security concerns with constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.
Government officials have emphasized:
- Constitutional compliance regarding peaceful assembly rights
- Economic continuity to minimize business disruption
- Security coordination between national and county governments
- Diplomatic messaging to international partners about stability
Opposition Strategy
Opposition leaders have declared June 25 an unofficial “People’s Public Holiday” to commemorate the Gen Z movement and honor victims of police killings. Key opposition figures are positioning the day as:
- Memorial commemoration for those killed during 2024 protests
- Democratic celebration of youth-led activism
- Accountability demand for police reforms and justice
- Unity demonstration across ethnic and political lines
The opposition has notably avoided direct political organizing, respecting the Gen Z movement’s rejection of traditional political gatekeepers.
Parliamentary Preparations
Parliament has implemented enhanced security measures including:
- Restricted access to parliamentary buildings and surrounding areas
- Emergency session readiness for potential government response
- Cross-party consultation on handling the anniversary
- International observer coordination with diplomatic missions
Business Community Response
Major businesses and industry associations have issued guidelines for June 25:
Banking Sector:
- Enhanced security at branches near protest routes
- Contingency plans for ATM services and mobile banking
- Staff safety protocols and early closure options
- Cash management adjustments in high-risk areas
Retail and Commerce:
- Mall security coordination with police
- Inventory protection measures
- Staff transportation arrangements
- Customer communication about potential disruptions
Transportation Industry:
- Matatu operators adjusting routes away from protest areas
- Ride-sharing companies implementing surge pricing protocols
- Airlines monitoring airport access routes
- Logistics companies rescheduling deliveries
Economic Impact Mitigation
Business leaders remain concerned about economic stability, given that previous protests were triggered by tax policies that doubled fuel taxes and increased income taxes.
Key business preparations include:
- Supply chain adjustments to avoid disruption
- Insurance coverage review for potential property damage
- Employee safety protocols including work-from-home options
- Cash flow management for potential temporary closures
Stock Market and Financial Sector
The Nairobi Securities Exchange has:
- Enhanced trading floor security
- Contingency plans for electronic trading continuation
- Coordination with Central Bank of Kenya on monetary stability
- International investor communication strategies
Digital Safety and Communication
- Limit social media posting of real-time locations during the protest
- Use secure messaging apps for coordination with trusted contacts
- Be aware of digital surveillance and potential internet disruptions
- Save important contacts offline in case of network issues
- Document incidents responsibly while prioritizing personal safety
Medical and Emergency Preparedness
For Protesters
- Know nearest hospitals along your protest route
- Carry emergency medical information including allergies and conditions
- Have emergency cash for potential medical needs
- Stay with medical conditions managed (medication, glucose, inhaler, etc.)
For Communities
- Ensure local clinics are prepared for potential casualties
- Have ambulance contacts readily available
- Organize community first aid volunteers if possible
- Coordinate with neighbors for mutual support
Post-Protest Considerations
- Report any incidents of rights violations to relevant authorities
- Seek medical attention if injured during the events
- Debrief with trusted contacts to process the day’s events
- Continue civic engagement through legal and peaceful channels
- Support affected community members who may need assistance
Call for Restraint
As Kenya marks this significant anniversary, all stakeholders—protesters, security forces, and ordinary citizens—are urged to prioritize peace, respect constitutional rights, and work toward the democratic ideals that sparked the original movement.
The #OccupyEverywhere protests represent a continuation of Kenya’s democratic journey. Whether participating or observing, every Kenyan has a role in ensuring Thursday’s events contribute positively to the nation’s ongoing transformation.
Emergency Contacts:
- Police Emergency: 999 or 112
- Kenya Red Cross: 1199
- Huri-Lines (Human Rights): 0800 720 643
Stay informed through trusted local news sources and official announcements. This is a developing story.
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