As Kenya gets ready to mark the first anniversary of the deadly June 2024 protests, the families of those who lost their lives are making serious demands.

They are calling on President William Ruto to issue a formal apology and are warning both security officers and suspected hired thugs.

This is so as to avoid any acts that could trigger more violence during the upcoming June 25, 2025, commemoration.

The protests on June 25 last year were massive. Thousands of young Kenyans—mainly members of Generation Z—marched through Nairobi and eventually stormed Parliament.

They were demonstrating against finance bill which included increased taxes, which they said would worsen the cost of living.

In response, security forces fired live bullets, tear gas, rubber bullets, and used water cannons to disperse the crowds.

The violence that day was deadly. Reports from human rights groups and independent observers confirmed that at least 19 people were killed in Nairobi alone.

Across the country, the death toll reached 22. Additionally, more than 200 people were injured and around 130 were arrested.

The anniversary

Now, as the country approaches the D date, 25th June, anniversary, many grieving families are speaking out.

In recent weeks, they have been demanding more than just words from the president and Parliament. They are calling for real action.

Their key demands include a public apology from President Ruto, the launch of a full criminal investigation into the killings, and holding individual officers accountable for the violence.

They are also asking for compensation and government-supported healing programs for the affected families.

To support their demands, the families plan to present a formal petition to the government. This petition will outline their expectations and urge leaders to take responsibility for what happened.

At the same time, the families are worried about what might happen during this year’s anniversary and memorial events.

Read also High Court replaces 20-yr jail term with life sentence for man who defiled 9yr-old girl

They fear that some individuals, including rogue police officers and suspected hired goons, might try to cause chaos during the June 25 activities.

Peaceful events

They have issued a strong warning, saying that any provocation could reopen painful wounds and push the country back into unrest.

As the day draws closer, various peaceful events have been planned across the country. These include candlelight vigils to honor those who died.

Families of the victims are urging the government not to send heavily armed security officers to these gatherings.

They insist that, the day of the anniversary should be about remembrance and healing—not more violence and fear.

In short, the victims’ families are pleading for justice, accountability, and peace as Kenya remembers one of its darkest days.