Kisumu remained peaceful as Gen Z protests marked their first anniversary
As the country marked one year since the deadly June 25 protests, Kisumu stood out for a different reason—peace. While streets in Nairobi and other major towns were tense and on edge, Kisumu remained largely calm and active.
Shops stayed open across the city. From Kachok to Kondele and the busy bus park, it was business as usual. A few matatus pulled off the roads for a few hours out of caution, but transport and trade never came to a halt.
In a surprising turn, Kondele, known as a hotspot during political tensions, remained peaceful. Residents went about their day with no protests or commotion reported in the area. The usual signs of unrest—burning tires, running crowds, or police patrols—were nowhere in sight.
Later in the day, a group of human rights defenders tried to address the press near the Deputy County Commissioner’s office at Jamhuri Park. They were airing concerns about enforced disappearances and human rights violations, calling on the government to stop the intimidation of protesters.
But before they could finish, a group of bodaboda youths interrupted the event. The youths accused them of trying to incite chaos in a city that had chosen calm.
“We won’t let anyone destroy our peace,” one of them shouted as the activists quickly dispersed.
Despite the tension, no one was hurt, and the incident ended without violence. Police were around but chose to observe from a distance without direct confrontation.
Governor Anyang Nyong’o later addressed the press, commending Kisumu residents for choosing peace on a sensitive day. He praised both the youth and city dwellers for opting for order instead of confrontation.
“I wish to thank the residents of Kisumu County for maintaining peace today,” he said, noting that calm was observed across all sub-counties.
While others braced for chaos, Kisumu stood tall and calm. The message from residents was simple—no more bloodshed, no more destruction. Just a quiet, united reminder of what June 25 stands for, without the violence.
