As Kenya marks one year since the historic youth-led protests against the 2024 Finance Bill, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has issued a stirring message of support to the youth, urging citizens to uphold peace, unity, and the right to demonstrate.
In a statement signed by Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and issued on Monday, June 23, 2025, ODM reaffirmed its support for the Gen Z anniversary, calling on Kenyans to uphold unity and constitutional freedoms as the country prepares to mark one year since the 2024 protests.
The party emphasised that honouring the youth-led movement and remembering those who lost their lives should not be misinterpreted as betrayal.
“As we draw close to the anniversary of the Gen Z protests, we urge Kenyans of goodwill to uphold national unity and ignore those who seek to divide us,” the statement read.
ODM reiterated that it remains an advocate for peaceful protest and has never shied away from standing with citizens who speak truth to power. The party called on demonstrators to honour the memory of lives lost by showing discipline and unity in the streets.
ODM further reiterated that it is not part of the government and is committed to preserving Kenya’s democratic values.
“We are committed to peaceful action and democracy, not to joining the government. Neither has our position changed.”
Government maintains normalcy
Meanwhile, the government has pushed back against the planned protests. Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura on Monday, June 23, 2025, dismissed calls for mass action, stating that Wednesday, June 25, 2025, will remain a normal working day.
“The government has not sanctioned any form of demonstration. This is a normal working day. Young people should not be misled by those with hidden political agendas,” Mwaura said during an interview on a local radio station.
He added that while peaceful protest is constitutional, the state has intelligence suggesting that some elements may be planning to incite unrest.
The planned protests are intended to honour young Kenyans who lost their lives during last year’s mass actions against the controversial Finance Bill.
