Thousands of Kenyans participated in demonstrations and memorial activities across the country on June 25, 2026, marking the second anniversary of the deadly June 25, 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
In Nairobi, protesters gathered in the Central Business District and marched through various streets to honor those who lost their lives. Police maintained a heavy presence, with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, and Nairobi Regional Commander Issa Mahamud overseeing security.
At several points in the CBD, police detonated tear gas to disperse crowds that attempted to cross restricted areas, leading to several arrests.
Families of victims, joined by opposition leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka, David Maraga, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua, and activists, marched toward Parliament for remembrance activities for those killed during the 2024 demonstrations.
Flower wreaths were placed on barbed wire outside Parliament as a tribute to the victims.
Siaya Governor James Orengo joined the protesters in Nairobi aboard a motorcycle.
In Githurai, tension rose when plain‑clothes officers on motorcycles patrolled the area attempting to disperse demonstrators, while in Nakuru, anti‑riot police on horseback patrolled the streets amid heightened vigilance.
Outside Nairobi, demonstrations were held in several towns, including Mombasa, where activists and residents staged a peaceful march to mark the anniversary.
Kitengela saw a heavy police operation; twenty‑nine youths suspected of involvement in planned protests and public disorder were arrested.
Business activity was disrupted in some towns; several businesses in Nyahururu remained closed as police intensified patrols.
Elsewhere, the situation remained calm. In Emali, traffic continued along the Mombasa‑Nairobi Highway despite heightened security.
In Kitui and parts of Elgeyo Marakwet County, daily activities proceeded without disruption and no protests were reported.