Families of protest victims have started a quiet march toward State House carrying flowers and Kenyan flags only. The families say they want to meet President William Ruto face to face.
They are asking for justice for sons and daughters killed during anti government protests in 2024 and 2025. The walk began at Jeevanjee Gardens in Nairobi under heavy emotion and tight security.
The families insist this is not a protest but a plea. They say many promises were made after the deaths but nothing meaningful has happened.
For more than a year parents have waited for arrests prosecutions and public answers. With Christmas days away they say the pain feels sharper as homes remain silent.
At the heart of their demand is accountability for police actions. Rights groups say dozens of young people died during demonstrations across the country.
Many families say officers used excessive force without warning. Independent reports show several victims were shot from behind which suggests they were running away.
The case of Rex Masai is often mentioned by grieving parents. He was among the first reported deaths during the protests in June 2024.
More than five hundred days later no officer has been convicted. Investigations by oversight bodies continue slowly amid disputes between state agencies.
President Ruto announced a plan in 2025 to support victims of police violence. That effort stalled after a court ruled the panel unconstitutional.
The ruling said compensation and accountability should be handled by independent institutions. Families say the legal battles have added to their suffering.
The protests that led to the deaths were driven by economic pressure. Young Kenyans protested rising taxes job shortages and high living costs.
Youth unemployment remains extremely high with many graduates entering a strained job market each year. Families say their children marched out of frustration not violence.
Police have been informed of the march in advance. Organizers requested protection and safe passage to avoid chaos. Interior officials have previously warned against attempts to access protected areas. By walking peacefully the families hope to show dignity strength and unity.
As they approach State House the families carry photos flowers and unanswered questions. They want recognition responsibility and reform. Above all they want assurance that their children mattered to the nation they believed in.
Their march seeks truth dignity healing and a future where peaceful voices never meet bullets again.
