On 25 June 2024, a protest over taxes erupted into one of the most dramatic political moments in recent Kenyan history.

Thousands of young Kenyans marched to Parliament in defiance of a Finance Bill many viewed as oppressive. That day, they broke through police lines, stormed the National Assembly, torched parts of the building, and made off with the ceremonial mace. At least 20 people were killed. Dozens more were injured.

The government quickly withdrew the Bill. But the events left behind a new political reality: Kenya’s Gen Z was no longer watching from the sidelines.

One Year Later: From Mourning to Chaos

On the first anniversary, thousands again took to the streets. They carried white crosses and flowers, mourning those who died in 2024. The demonstrations began peacefully — songs, prayers, and calls for justice.

But the mood shifted.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets. Protesters were chased through city streets. Several deaths were reported, with scores injured across more than 20 counties. In the chaos, opportunistic looters and violent gangs hijacked the moment — shops were vandalised, government offices torched.

A Day Hijacked

The line between mourning and mayhem blurred quickly. Many protesters claimed the violence wasn’t theirs. They said it was the work of hired goons sent to sabotage the movement.

Civil society groups agreed, saying the protests had been infiltrated. Others condemned the destruction, insisting that peaceful demonstrations cannot coexist with looting and arson.

Self-declared vigilantes also appeared in the capital, claiming to protect businesses. They carried clubs and warned protesters to stay away from private property.

Government Stands Firm

The government insisted that force was necessary. Security officials called the violent elements “domestic terrorists,” accusing them of planning to destabilise the country.

President Ruto acknowledged the protesters’ right to assemble but warned that no government would tolerate anarchy. Authorities have arrested dozens and launched investigations using surveillance footage.

A Generation Awakened

Despite the violence, many believe the real story is the continued rise of a digital generation. Kenya’s youth, especially Gen Z, have proven they can organise, speak out and demand change.

On Sunday night, NTV’s #ThePeopleShall will give voice to the protesters, from those who stormed Parliament to the ones who marched quietly this year. It will ask a question many are still wrestling with: Was this a revolution, or something even deeper?

The Road Ahead

Kenya stands at a crossroads. Youth voices are louder than ever. The government says it’s listening. But tensions remain high — and the country is still deciding what kind of democracy it wants to be.

One year. Two protests. And a generation unwilling to be ignored.