Kenyan Gen Z Protests Demand President Ruto's Resignation Amid Violence

In Nairobi, thousands of young Kenyans gathered on June 25, 2025, to protest against President William Ruto, demanding his resignation amidst escalating tensions and recent violence. This significant demonstration marked the anniversary of earlier protests that resulted in the storming of Parliament and the deaths of over 60 individuals due to police brutality.

The protests were fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with President Ruto’s administration, particularly regarding increased taxation and the government’s handling of dissent. Since Ruto took office in 2022, significant tax increases have been implemented, including a doubling of the sales tax on fuel and the introduction of new levies aimed at raising $2.7 billion to reduce reliance on external borrowing (source: Kenya National Treasury). The government's response to previous protests, which involved a violent crackdown resulting in numerous casualties, has heightened public anger.

According to the Kenya National Human Rights Commission, more than 80 forced disappearances have been reported since June 2024, primarily targeting government critics. Many of these disappearances are believed to be orchestrated by security forces, although the government has not acknowledged its role (source: KHRC report, January 2025). The recent death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and blogger who died in police custody from injuries consistent with torture, has further incited public outrage (source: autopsy report by Nairobi Pathology Services, June 2025).

As the protests unfolded, police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, leading to clashes that left at least 50 individuals injured in Nairobi alone (source: Kenyatta National Hospital, June 25, 2025). The government has responded to the unrest by shutting down major television stations to curb live coverage of the protests, citing concerns over public order (source: Communication Authority of Kenya, June 2025). The Kenya Editors' Guild condemned this action, asserting that it undermines accountability (source: statement by Kenya Editors' Guild, June 25, 2025).

Amidst the chaos, protesters expressed their grievances through chants of "Ruto must go" and carried placards demanding justice for those killed in previous protests. One demonstrator, Amina Mude, emphasized the need for a better future for her children and the importance of peaceful protest (source: interview with BBC, June 25, 2025).

The protests have also drawn international attention, with human rights organizations urging the Kenyan government to respect citizens' rights to assemble peacefully and to investigate the actions of the police (source: Amnesty International statement, June 2025).

As the situation unfolds, the implications for Ruto’s presidency remain uncertain. His government has faced criticism for its perceived inability to address the fundamental issues affecting ordinary Kenyans, including economic hardship and government accountability. As protests continue, it is clear that the discontent among the youth, particularly Gen Z, poses a significant challenge to Ruto’s administration and could lead to further unrest if not addressed (source: political analysis by Dr. Michael Karanja, Political Science Department, University of Nairobi, June 2025).

In conclusion, the ongoing protests signify a pivotal moment in Kenya’s political landscape, where the voices of the youth are increasingly demanding change and accountability from their leaders. The government's next steps will be crucial in determining whether this unrest can be resolved peacefully or whether it will escalate into further violence and instability.