Uprisings and Protests in Kenya: Past to Present

Since achieving independence from British colonial rule in 1963, Kenya has experienced several significant uprisings and protests that have shaped its socio-political landscape. These events have been pivotal in challenging existing power structures and advocating for change.

Uprisings Since Independence

 The Shifta War (1963-1967): A Historical Overview

 The Shifta War was a significant conflict that unfolded in Kenya shortly after its independence from British colonial rule in 1963. The war primarily involved clashes between the Kenyan government and ethnic Somalis in the northern regions of the country. This conflict emerged from longstanding grievances over territorial claims, political representation, and socio-economic disparities.

Background

1.     Ethnic Dynamics: The ethnic Somalis inhabited most of the northern parts of Kenya that shared boundaries with Somalia. These communities often felt their marginalization and underrepresentation in the newly formed government of Kenya.

2.     Territorial Rows: The struggle was for the Somali inhabited areas, largely the current Northern Frontier District claimed by Somalia as part of Greater Somalia, while Kenya was bent on maintaining its territorial integrity within the colonial boundaries.

3.     Political Context: The Shifta War took place during the Cold War era. Somalia had allies who were aligned to the Soviet Union, while on the other hand, Kenya looked to the West, mainly the United Kingdom.

The course of the Conflict

1. Escalation: Tensions escalated quickly after Kenya's independence as armed clashes broke out between Kenyan security forces and Somali militia groups, known locally as "Shifta." These groups sought autonomy or integration with Somalia.

2. Military Campaigns: The Kenyan government launched military campaigns to suppress the Shifta insurgency, deploying significant military resources to the NFD. The conflict led to casualties on both sides and inflicted hardships on civilian populations caught in the crossfire.

3. International Involvement: The Shifta War attracted international attention due to its potential to destabilize the region. Somalia's support for the Shifta insurgents further strained diplomatic relations between the two countries and heightened regional tensions.

Resolution and Legacy

1. Ceasefire and Negotiations: In 1967, both Kenya and Somalia signed a ceasefire agreement mediated by the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which led to a cessation of hostilities. The agreement affirmed Kenya's sovereignty over the NFD while committing to address the grievances of the Somali communities through political means.

2. Impact: The Shifta War impacted Kenya's national unity and security policies. It underscored the challenges of integrating diverse ethnic communities into a unified nation-state and influenced subsequent policies aimed at decentralization and devolution of power.

The Shifta War of 1963-1967 was a pivotal chapter in Kenya's post-independence history, highlighting the complexities of ethnic relations, territorial disputes, and the challenges of nation-building. While the conflict was eventually resolved through diplomatic means, its legacy continues to shape socio-political dynamics in Kenya, particularly with regional autonomy and identity politics.

1982 Coup Attempt

The coup d'état in Kenya on August 1, 1982, marks a crucial point in the nation's past affecting its political path.

Background

1.     Political Situation

After Kenya's first President Jomo Kenyatta died in 1978, Vice President Daniel Arap Moi became the president. Moi, a member of the smaller Kalenjin ethnic group faced difficulties in gaining control within the Kenya African National Union (KANU). This party was led by Kenyatta's Kikuyu ethnic group. The power shift was full of political uncertainty and battles for power among the Kikuyu leaders who didn't want to give up control to Moi. Despite these problems, Moi worked his way through the complex political scene. He used his well-known humility and image as an outsider to win the trust of other ethnic groups and sidelined communities. He started a campaign to solidify his power by placing his supporters in KANU and the civil service, which reduced the power of Kenyatta's close allies.

Moi's first years as a leader started with vows for change and unity, but these turned into growing authoritarian rule. At first, Moi won people's hearts with his Nyayo philosophy which promoted peace, love, and unity similar to Kenyatta's appeal for national unity. Yet, as Moi tightened his hold on authority, he used strong measures to quiet any opposition and keep his power. This change was seen in 1982 when Moi pushed through changes to the constitution that made Kenya a one-party state securing KANU's control and his presidential role.

The government cracked down on those who disagreed, harassed detained without trial, and sometimes tortured opposition leaders, critical media people, and thinkers. Nairobi's infamous Nyayo House became known for its harsh treatment of those seen as enemies of the state. Cases like the imprisonment of loud critic journalist Gitobu Imanyara and lawyer Gibson Kamau Kuria showed how the government could not tolerate opposition. This suppression spread to student groups and labor unions turning university areas into centers of protest against Moi's growing dictatorial control.

Moi's rule seemed like it would bring change, but soon it became a time of great repression and less freedom. He shaped laws and the Constitution to solidify his control. This made it dangerous to disagree and let the government's power go unchallenged.

2.     Economic and Social Issues

Economic Chaos: In the early 1980s, Kenya faced a severe economic crisis. The nation's external debts increased worsened by global economic problems and poor economic strategies. This caused a lot of unemployment higher prices, and general unhappiness in society.

Moi's rule received a lot of criticism for giving privileges to his Kalenjin ethnic group while ignoring the needs of other ethnic groups the Kikuyu, who were very influential during Kenyatta's time.

3.     Unrest in the Military

·       Complaints in the Military: The Kenya Armed Forces experienced unrest due to perceived ethnic bias in promotions and assignments, corruption in military purchasing, and suppression of internal changes.

·       Leadership Conflicts: A group of mid-level officers from the Kenya Air Force led the coup attempt unhappy with Moi's leadership aiming to establish a government that was more inclusive and responsible.

Coup Attempt Progress

1.     Carrying Out and Reaction

On August 1, 1982, in the morning, Senior Private Hezekiah Ochuka and junior officers from the Kenya Air Force attempted a coup against President Daniel arap Moi's administration. They took over important facilities, including the state broadcaster Voice of Kenya (now Kenya Broadcasting Corporation). They used this platform to broadcast their takeover and called for support from the public. They also took control of the Nairobi International Airport military bases and government buildings in Nairobi. Their goal was to stop the government from reacting. The coup leaders aimed to use the shock of their sudden attack to take over crucial communication and transport centers. They thought this would weaken the administration and help start a wider rebellion.

The control by the insurgents did not last long. President Moi surprised at first called up loyalist forces to fight back against the rebellion. The Kenya Army's 1st Kenya Rifles battalion and paramilitary groups from the General Service Unit (GSU) moved to recover the captured buildings. Commanded by high-ranking army leaders loyal to Moi, these troops carried out a well-planned and forceful action to crush the coup. Intense fighting broke out at the broadcasting station and military bases leading to many deaths and a lot of damage.

On August 1, by afternoon, forces loyal to the government had taken back the most important places. The coup failed in just a few hours, and the number of people who died was 159 as per the official report from the government. However, independent sources report that over 500 people lost their lives. This included both the rebels and innocent people who were just there. People who led the coup, like Hezekiah Ochuka, got caught, put on trial, and were then executed. Stopping the coup not only made Moi's control stronger, but it also started a time of more severe suppression. Lots of people in the military and government jobs got fired to get rid of anyone Moi thought might not be loyal making his harsh rule stronger and increasing ethnic conflicts in the nation. This harsh action showed how weak Moi’s rule was and led to ongoing political trouble and later efforts to make the government more democratic.

2.     Repercussions

After the 1982 coup attempt that failed, President Moi began a harsh and large crackdown. He targeted not just those involved in the coup but also anyone he thought opposed him, including scholars and people speaking out in Kenya. This time led to the arrest of thousands under emergency laws holding them without a trial. Well-known people like politicians Raila Odinga and his father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, along with journalists, university teachers, and students faced severe action. Raila spent almost six years in jail without a trial due to suspicions of his involvement in the coup. University campuses, which were centers of political activity, got heavy surveillance. The government arrested or kicked out students and teachers who criticized it. Moi's regime was removing any threats to stay in control, which spread fear and intimidation throughout Kenya.

The coup attempt also gave President Moi a reason to expand censorship, limit media, and restrict people's freedoms. His government took tighter control of the media, which shut down many newspapers, magazines, and broadcasters criticizing the government. The Voice of Kenya now called the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, turned into a vehicle for government propaganda. Journalists who challenged the government, like Gitobu Imanyara faced harassment, arrests, and sometimes had to leave the country. They often got locked up as well.

The government banned opposition parties making KANU the only legal political party. This ban killed political variety and quieted those who disagreed, which made Moi's rule more dictatorial. Political fighters, like those from the secret group Mwakenya, suffered harsh punishments. Many got arrested, tortured, or had to hide. The government also came down hard on civil society groups and human rights defenders making it hard for them to work and push for democratic changes.

The repressive and censoring atmosphere limited political talks and the people's chance to question the government. Even with criticism from around the world, Moi kept strong control using the coup effort as a reason to keep using strict authoritative actions. This time of repression set the stage for the pro-democracy movements of the late 1980s and early 1990s as Kenyans started to fight more against the harsh political climate and wanted more freedom and democratic rule.

Consequences and Legacy

1. Authoritarian Consolidation

The 1982 coup attempt made President Moi's power stronger turning Kenya into a one-party state under the Kenya African National Union (KANU). After the coup, Moi got rid of any opposition left in politics. In June 1982, the constitution was changed to allow KANU to stop other political parties from forming. This made it so Moi's rule was in power stopping different political opinions and making it illegal to be active outside of KANU. Moi became known for his strict and central control and used his power to control the political field for his benefit. He used methods like bringing opposition leaders to his side, twisting the electoral methods, and using government resources to keep his power strong. With no political rivals, Moi led without much need to answer to anyone deepening his strict rule.

After the coup, corruption grew a lot and many people who were loyal to Moi got the best jobs and deals. People had to show they were loyal to Moi to move up. Since it was a one-party state, it was easy for these corrupt acts to happen because no one could check what was going on. The people in government and big businesses who were very loyal to Moi got good deals, important jobs, and could use the resources of the country. This whole system spread everywhere in the government and businesses. It made it harder for the country to grow and kept many people poor.

During Moi's rule major corruption scandals, like the Goldenberg affair in the early 1990s, saw billions of shillings drained from the national treasury through fake gold and diamond trades. Scandals like these thrived due to weak accountability measures leaving culprits often unpunished. Political loyalty blended with economic gains let Moi's closest allies commit corruption thereby securing their control and sway.

Due to this, people stopped trusting the government, and the social ties in the country were stretched due to rising money gaps and unhappiness. The common culture of corruption and special favors not only hindered economic progress but also harmed the basics of good leadership and the rule of law. This situation created an example that kept troubling Kenya's political and economic ground long after Moi was no longer president.

2.     Social and Ethnic Divisions

Ethnic tensions in Kenya grew after the 1982 coup attempt, particularly between the Kalenjin ethnic base of President Moi and other significant communities like the Kikuyu. This intensification widened already-existing rifts and fostered a pervasive mistrust that shaped political coalitions and conflicts in the years that followed. For example, the coup attempt's suppression stoked suspicions and sparked retaliation against people based on their perceived ethnic affiliations, deepening rifts between communities and influencing coalitions and election tactics.
Furthermore, the operations of civil society organizations were severely restricted in the aftermath of the coup attempt. These organizations, including the Kenya Human Rights Commission and other advocacy groups, came under increased government monitoring and were subject to punitive actions. Their capacity to advance human rights, push for democratic reforms, and have an open dialogue about governance issues was severely hampered by this crackdown. A lot of organizations faced legislative constraints, heightened surveillance, and intimidation of leaders, which made it harder for them to effectively advocate for governmental accountability and social change.

3.     International Relations

The coup attempt in 1982 had significant diplomatic repercussions for Kenya, straining its relations with Western countries that condemned the government's subsequent crackdown on human rights and democratic freedoms. Western nations, including the United States and European countries, voiced strong criticisms against President Moi's regime for its heavy-handed response to political dissent and its suppression of civil liberties. These countries, which had previously been key allies and supporters of Kenya's post-independence development, now expressed concerns over the deteriorating human rights situation and lack of political pluralism.

President Moi changed course and began pursuing political and economic ties with Eastern nations like China and the Soviet Union in reaction to criticism from the West and dwindling support. These partnerships were established to improve Kenya's standing abroad and counteract the diplomatic isolation that Western countries had placed the country under. But standing with Eastern states also made Kenya more isolated from Western diplomatic circles and put a strain on its long-standing alliances and trade connections with Western countries.

The diplomatic fallout from the coup attempt underscored Kenya's geopolitical vulnerabilities and highlighted the complexities of navigating international relations amidst domestic political turmoil. It marked a significant shift in Kenya's foreign policy dynamics, as the country sought to balance diplomatic interests between Eastern and Western powers while grappling with internal challenges to democratic governance and human rights protection.

The attempted coup in Kenya in 1982 was a moment of political turmoil, but more significantly, it had a profound effect on politics, akin to an earthquake in the country's history. If anything, by highlighting the weaknesses inherent in institutions and governance systems, it served to remind people of the precarious nature of democratic institutions within Kenya's fledgling democracy. The attempted coup was only a return to President Daniel arap Moi's deeply ingrained authoritarianism, which was used to solidify one-party authority and intensify repression during his tenure. This period witnessed the curtailment of civil liberties, suppression of political dissent, and widespread human rights abuses, which left a lasting scar on Kenya's socio-political fabric. Furthermore, the coup exacerbated existing ethnic divisions, deepening mistrust and polarization within Kenyan society. These socio-political fractures continue to influence political alliances, electoral dynamics, and governance practices, highlighting the enduring legacy of the 1982 coup attempt on Kenya's path toward democratic consolidation and societal cohesion.

Saba Saba Uprising

The events of Saba Saba on July 7, 1990, stand as a pivotal moment in Kenya's modern political history, following the trauma of the 1982 coup attempt. Named for its date, "seven seven" in Swahili, Saba Saba was a massive pro-democracy rally held at Nairobi's Kamukunji Grounds, organized by a coalition of opposition leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens. This gathering symbolized a united front against President Daniel arap Moi's single-party dictatorship, demanding political reforms and the establishment of multi-party democracy. Leading figures like Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, and Raila Odinga spearheaded the rally, which drew thousands from diverse ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. Saba Saba reflected deep-seated discontent with Moi's authoritarian rule, exacerbated by economic hardships and social injustices. Despite the government's heavy-handed response—deploying riot police and security forces resulting in clashes, injuries, and arrests—the rally galvanized domestic and international pressure for change. Ultimately, Saba Saba catalyzed constitutional reforms that repealed Section 2A, opening the path to multi-party politics and marking a significant shift towards democratic governance in Kenya.

Background and Context

1.     Political Repression and Authoritarian Rule

 Following the failed coup attempt in 1982, President Moi's regime intensified its crackdown on dissent, civil liberties, and political opposition, imposing strict censorship laws that targeted independent media outlets critical of the government. Additionally, Moi's administration implemented draconian security measures, including arbitrary arrests and prolonged detention without trial for suspected dissidents such as journalists, activists, and opposition leaders perceived as threats to the ruling party's authority. The regime's response to dissent extended to the university campuses, where student protests advocating for democratic reforms were met with violent suppression by security forces, illustrating the government's determination to quell any form of opposition that challenged its grip on power.

Kenya operated under a de facto one-party system dominated by Moi's Kenya African National Union (KANU), which exerted hegemonic control over all aspects of political life, including legislative processes, electoral procedures, and key governmental appointments. KANU's monopoly extended beyond formal political institutions to encompass civil society organizations, trade unions, and professional associations, effectively stifling dissent and limiting opportunities for alternative political participation. This consolidation of power enabled Moi and his inner circle to wield immense influence over policy-making and governance decisions, shaping Kenya's socio-political landscape through centralized authority and patronage networks that perpetuated their political dominance for decades.

2.     Economic Challenges and Social Unrest

Throughout the 1980s and early 1990s, Kenya faced profound economic stagnation exacerbated by systemic mismanagement, pervasive corruption at all levels of government, and a persistent decline in living standards for the majority of its citizens. The country's economic woes were compounded by external debt burdens and poorly executed development policies that failed to stimulate sustainable growth or alleviate poverty. As a result, unemployment rates soared, inflation eroded purchasing power, and essential public services such as healthcare and education suffered from chronic underfunding and inefficiencies. The combination of internal governance failures and adverse global economic conditions created a precarious environment that heightened public dissatisfaction and fueled demands for systemic reform and accountability within Kenya's political and economic institutions. The combination of political repression and economic hardship fueled public discontent and calls for reform among Kenyan citizens, civil society, and opposition groups.

The Saba Saba Rally

1.     Organizational Efforts and Participation

On 7 July 1990, through the struggles of a wide spectrum of opposition stalwarts, major ones including Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia, the Saba Saba rally was taken to the streets. Erstwhile companions, they were major donors in this rather fundamental fight for democratic reforms. They were aided by broad-based civil society organizations, major ones including the Kenya Human Rights Commission, which played a very major role in mobilizing support for the rally and ensuring that it had broadly based appeal across Kenyan society. Many ordinary citizens, who have been galvanized by years of political repression and socio-economic hardship, also turned out in their thousands. It is estimated that thousands of Kenyans from different ethnic groups and walks of life converged on the Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi to air their views. The rally was a heterogeneous representation of Kenyan society, united in demands for political liberalization, an end to the one-party rule under President Moi's KANU regime, and the establishment of multi-party democracy. In providing such mass expression of popular disaffection, it also put forward a unified demand for far-reaching changes in the political landscape of Kenya, which became a defining moment in the country's struggle toward democratic governance.

2.     Government Response and Violence

The Moi government responded to the Saba Saba rally on July 7, 1990, with severe repression, deploying riot police and security forces armed with tear gas, batons, and firearms to forcibly disperse the protesters gathered at Kamukunji Grounds in Nairobi. The atmosphere quickly turned tense as peaceful demonstrations escalated into violent clashes between protesters and security forces. Eyewitness accounts and reports from human rights organizations documented a scene of chaos and brutality, with security forces indiscriminately beating and firing upon demonstrators and bystanders alike.

The crackdown resulted in numerous casualties, including injuries, arrests, and tragic deaths among both protesters and innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire. Exact figures vary, but it is widely reported that several people lost their lives during the confrontation, with estimates suggesting at least 20 fatalities and hundreds more injured. The violent suppression of the Saba Saba rally sparked outrage both domestically and internationally, underscoring the extent of the government's determination to maintain its grip on power and suppress dissent at any cost.

The aftermath of Saba Saba saw a wave of arrests and detentions of opposition leaders, activists, and journalists critical of the regime, further solidifying Moi's authoritarian rule. However, the brutal response also galvanized public opinion against the government's repressive tactics, fueling momentum for political reforms and ultimately leading to constitutional amendments that paved the way for multi-party democracy in Kenya. The events of Saba Saba thus remain a stark reminder of the sacrifices made in the struggle for democratic freedoms and the ongoing quest for justice and accountability in Kenya's political history.

Impact and Legacy

3.     Political Reforms and Multi-Party Democracy

Despite the violent suppression of the Saba Saba rally, the event became a rallying cry that galvanized both domestic and international pressure for political reforms in Kenya. The brutality displayed by security forces against peaceful protesters drew widespread condemnation from within Kenya and from the global community. Prominent international human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, issued scathing reports highlighting the Moi regime's human rights abuses. Domestically, the rally energized the opposition and civil society groups, spurring a surge in activism and public demands for democratic change.

In response to this mounting pressure, President Moi reluctantly initiated a series of constitutional reforms. The growing unrest, coupled with increasing diplomatic isolation and economic pressure from Western nations, left Moi with little choice but to concede to some of the reformist demands. In 1991, he oversaw the repeal of Section 2A of the Kenyan constitution, a landmark decision that abolished the one-party state and reinstated multi-party democracy. This pivotal change opened the political landscape, allowing for the formation of multiple political parties and setting the stage for the competitive elections of the 1990s. Examples of these newly formed opposition parties include the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD), which played a significant role in the subsequent political developments and elections in Kenya. The repeal of Section 2A thus marked a crucial step towards democratization, reflecting the power of sustained domestic and international advocacy in effecting political change.

3.     Symbolism and National Unity

The Saba Saba rally emerged as a potent symbol of resistance against authoritarianism and served as a crucial catalyst for Kenya's transition towards a more pluralistic political system. The rally's significance extended far beyond the immediate protests, encapsulating the aspirations of a nation yearning for democratic freedoms and the rule of law. It became an enduring emblem of the struggle against the repressive Moi regime, representing the collective determination of Kenyans to challenge the status quo and demand meaningful political change. The widespread participation in Saba Saba, cutting across ethnic, social, and economic lines, illustrated a unified front committed to ending the era of single-party dominance.

Moreover, Saba Saba showcased the formidable power of collective action and civil society mobilization in holding the government accountable. The rally highlighted how grassroots activism when galvanized by civil society organizations, opposition leaders, and ordinary citizens, could effectively challenge and pressure an entrenched authoritarian regime. Civil society groups, such as the Kenya Human Rights Commission, played pivotal roles in organizing and amplifying the rally's impact, advocating for transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights. Their efforts demonstrated that sustained advocacy and public mobilization could lead to significant political reforms, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for democratic governance and human rights in Kenya. Saba Saba thus remains a landmark in Kenya's history, symbolizing the enduring power of unified civic engagement in the quest for democracy.

Conclusion:

Saba Saba remains a seminal event in Kenya's political history, symbolizing the struggle for democracy, political reforms, and social justice. The rally and its aftermath underscored the resilience of Kenyan civil society in challenging authoritarian rule and advocating for democratic ideals. While the journey towards democratic consolidation has been fraught with challenges, Saba Saba continues to inspire efforts towards good governance, inclusive politics, and national unity in Kenya.

The Gen Z Uprising

For close to the past decade now, Kenya has been witnessing waves of youth-led protests that have largely been termed the "Gen Z Uprising." This youthful movement is largely driven by the young generation born in the late 1990s and early 2010s, nursing increased discontentment with the tight hold on political and economic challenges in their country. These roots of discontent are due to long-standing problems: high unemployment rates, generalized corruption, police brutality, and the absence of political reforms. The COVID-19 pandemic took this even further and highlighted the inequalities and failures of government institutions to give support to the population.

Protests Against the Finance Bill 2024

Background and Context

The highly controversial Finance Bill 2024, proposed by the Kenyan government, stirred a wave of nationwide protests by Gen Z. It contained numerous taxation and levy measures to eventually increase government revenues. The government argued that the reason for doing this was to bridge its budget deficit and finance vital public services, while many Kenyans counter that the Bill added extra costs to already impoverished citizens. While opinions were split, many felt that the 2024 Finance Bill was oppressive and literally from another century with regard to the post-pandemic economic effects, compounded by perpetual challenges like high unemployment rates and a spiraling cost of living.

Mobilization and Protests

In response to the proposed Finance Bill 2024, Gen Z mobilized to protest against the legislation. The protests were organized through digital platforms, with social media playing a crucial role in coordinating actions and spreading awareness. Hashtags like #RejectFinanceBill2024, #OccupyParliament, and #RutoMustGo have trended on X, amplifying the voices of those opposed to the bill.

Major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu have seen large-scale demonstrations, with thousands of young people taking to the streets to express their dissatisfaction. The protests have been marked by speeches and marches with participants demanding that the government reconsider the bill and engage in more inclusive consultations with stakeholders.

Government Response

The government's response to the protests has been a mix of concession and repression. While some officials have expressed a willingness to dialogue with protest leaders and review certain aspects of the bill, others have taken a harder stance, emphasizing the necessity of the tax measures for national development. Security forces have been deployed to manage the protests, and there have been reports of clashes between police and demonstrators, resulting in injuries and arrests.

Gen Z Protest Killings and Abductions by the Police

The Gen Z protests in Kenya, initially sparked by widespread dissatisfaction with the Finance Bill 2024, have tragically been marred by instances of police brutality, including killings and abductions of protesters. These actions by the police have drawn significant criticism and highlighted the ongoing issues of human rights violations and lack of accountability within Kenya's security forces.

Incidents of Killings

The June 2024 protests in Kenya, primarily driven by widespread opposition to the Finance Bill 2024, were marred by severe police brutality, leading to numerous fatalities. According to reports from human rights organizations and local news outlets, at least 39 protesters were killed by police forces during the demonstrations. The police response was characterized by the use of live ammunition, tear gas, and excessive force against unarmed civilians. In Nairobi, a particularly harrowing incident saw the death of a 28-year-old, Michael Kihunga, who was shot at close range during a peaceful march. The deaths during the June 2024 protests have not only intensified public outrage but also underscored the broader issues of state repression and the fight for democratic rights in the country.

Abductions and Enforced Disappearances

It is in the wake of this fear from the Finance Bill that alarming abductions targeting activists and demonstrators skyrocketed in June 2024 across Kenya. A stream of reports said plainclothes police officers were forcing protesters into detention, mostly in broad daylight, and whisking them away to unknown destinations. Student leader Gabriel Oguda and 32 others were abducted during the two weeks of the protests with their whereabouts unknown causing fear and outrage among their peers and members of the public. These abductions have not only resulted in a climate of fear amongst the protesters but have also pointed out how far the State is willing to go in suppressing dissent.

Government and Police Response

The Kenyan government's response to allegations of killings and abductions has been largely dismissive. Officials have often labeled the protesters as unruly and claimed that the police actions were necessary to maintain public order. The Ministry of Interior, under Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, has denied any systemic issues within the police force, attributing isolated incidents to rogue officers rather than a broader policy of repression.

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into some of these incidents, but their effectiveness and impartiality have been questioned. Many believe that the IPOA lacks the necessary power and independence to hold the police accountable, resulting in a culture of impunity within the security forces.

Impact on Public Perception and Mobilization

The killings and abductions have significantly impacted public perception, further eroding trust in law enforcement and the government. These actions have not only galvanized the youth but also drawn broader segments of society into the protests. The families of the victims, human rights organizations, and international bodies have all condemned the police brutality, calling for comprehensive reforms and justice for the victims.

The brutal response has also intensified the resolve of the protesters. Instead of deterring participation, the state’s violent tactics have highlighted the urgent need for systemic change, rallying more people to the cause. The deaths and disappearances of young protesters have become powerful symbols of resistance and have amplified calls for accountability, transparency, and respect for human rights.

There are several similarities between the Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill 2024 and the historic Saba Saba rally in Kenya:

1. Demand for Political Reform

   Both protests were driven by a shared desire for political reform and democratization. The Saba Saba rally in 1990 called for an end to the single-party dictatorship under President Daniel Arap Moi and demanded multi-party democracy. Similarly, the Gen Z protests are advocating against the Finance Bill 2024, which they perceive as an oppressive economic measure imposed without adequate consultation, reflecting broader frustrations with governance and representation.

2. Youth-Led Movements

   Both protests have been largely led by the youth demographic. The Saba Saba rally saw a significant mobilization of young people, intellectuals, and civil society activists who played pivotal roles in organizing and participating in the demonstration. Similarly, the Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill 2024 are predominantly led by young Kenyans leveraging social media and digital platforms to coordinate and amplify their voices.

3. Use of Social Media and Technology

   Social media has played a crucial role in both protests, facilitating communication, mobilization, and the dissemination of information. During Saba Saba, activists used traditional media and word of mouth to spread their message, while today's Gen Z protesters utilize platforms like X, TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp to organize demonstrations, share updates, and document instances of police brutality and government response

4. Response to Government Repression

   Both protests have faced government repression and a heavy-handed response from security forces. During Saba Saba, the Moi government deployed riot police and used tear gas to disperse protesters, leading to violent clashes and arrests. Similarly, the Gen Z protests have been met with tear gas, water cannons, and allegations of police brutality, indicating a recurring pattern of state repression in response to dissenting voices.

5. Symbolic Significance

   Both protests hold symbolic significance in Kenya's history of political struggle. Saba Saba is remembered as a watershed moment in the fight for democracy and human rights, marking a turning point in Kenya's transition towards multi-party politics. While focused on economic issues, the Gen Z protests also symbolize a continuation of the quest for democratic governance and social justice, resonating with the aspirations of previous generations who sought to challenge authoritarianism and promote civic engagement.

In essence, both the Saba Saba rally and the Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill 2024 share common themes of youth mobilization, demands for political reform, use of digital activism, response to government repression, and symbolic importance in Kenya's ongoing struggle for democracy and social justice.

Moving forward, it will be crucial for the government to engage in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders to find a balanced approach that addresses the country's fiscal needs without unduly burdening its citizens. The outcome of this conflict will likely have significant implications for Kenya's political and economic landscape in the years to come.

References:

- Anderson, D. M. (1985). "The Shifta War: A Study in Counter-Insurgency." Nairobi: Oxford University Press.

- Barkan, J. D. (1992). "Beyond Capitalism vs. Socialism in Kenya and Tanzania." Boulder: Lynne Rienner Publishers.

- Branch, D. (2011). "Kenya: Between Hope and Despair, 1963-2011." New Haven: Yale University Press.

- East African Standard. (1967). "Ceasefire Agreement between Kenya and Somalia."

- Githongo, John. "Kenya: From Autocracy to Democracy, 1963-2013." African Affairs, vol. 113, no. 451, 2014, pp. 326-355

- Kenyan News Outlets:

Local news sources such as The Daily Nation, The Standard, Citizen, KTN, and The Star extensively cover the Gen Z protests, police brutality, and the Finance Bill 2024.

- Mamdani, M. (1996). "Citizen and Subject: Contemporary Africa and the Legacy of Late Colonialism." Princeton University Press.

- Mwenda, A. M. (2001). "The Fall of the Tyrant: The Story of the Fight for Freedom in Kenya." Nairobi: Focus Books.

- Odinga, R. (1992). "Saba Saba: The Turning Point." Nairobi: East African Educational Publishers.

- Ogot, Bethwell A., and Ochieng’, William R. Decolonization and Independence in Kenya: 1940-93. James Currey Publishers, 1995,

- The Standard, "The 1982 Coup Attempt and Its Aftermath," 2005.