THE REVOLUTION WILL BE LIVE-STREAMED.

The events of June 25^th 2024, will go down in the annals of Kenyan history as one of the most defining moments. What began as a grumble on social media platforms morphed into a full-blown, smartphone-powered revolution. Kenya’s Gen-Z, previously dismissed as politically apathetic, rose in a tech-savvy rebellion against the Finance Bill 2024. This unprecedented protest brought the country to a standstill and set a precedent for future generations across Africa and the world.

The current cohort of Kenyan youth—who have adopted novel modes of activism, leveraging digital platforms to voice their dissent and rally for reform—proved they were more than just keyboard warriors. Frustrated by the punitive tax proposals in the Finance Bill, they took to social media platforms to voice their discontent, but the government misread the situation and dismissed them as harmless. However, they soon transformed into a nationwide movement, with hashtags like #OccupyParliament and #RejectFinanceBill2024, spreading like wildfire.

On June 25^th 2024, the day of reckoning, the city witnessed a sea of black-clad, social media-savvy Gen Z armed with nothing more than placards, determination, and an impressive ability to live-stream even while dodging tear gas. Unlike past protests that were characterized by chaos and violence, this was a masterclass in decentralized organization. With no clear leadership to target, authorities were left baffled. With the security forces caught flat-footed, they resorted to excessive force. Tear gas canisters were lobbed, and water cannons deployed, but this did not deter the young protesters.

The tragic deaths of Rex Kanyike Masai and Evans Kiratu, both unarmed youthful protestors, sparked more outrage. It is here that the true spirit of Kenya shone through. Online platforms once filled with memes now resounded with appeals for justice and accountability. They also served as a platform for coordinating support and solidarity. Local businesses and places of worship offered refuge to protesters, while volunteer medical professionals cared for the injured.

The impact of this protest reverberated beyond Kenya’s borders. It showcased the power of unity and the potential of digital platforms to drive social change. The movement’s leaderless and tribeless nature made it impossible for the administration to spin the tax measures as a middle-class or tribal issue. Soon, anti-tax demonstrations were being held in front of Kenyan Embassies and consulates in almost all major cities around the world.

Tone-deaf Administration

President William Ruto, who won the presidency on a populist message, misjudged the simmering public anger. The administration’s response to the protests was a cynical attempt to discredit the movement. Despite the polls that showed public discontent with his tax measures, numerous op-eds in the newspapers, online discussions, and debates on TV and radio talk shows, it appears that the storming of Parliament in Nairobi caught him by surprise. The dismissive attitude of his administration towards valid criticisms was blowing up in their faces.

The government, caught on the offensive, went on damage control to appease the masses. Several contentious tax proposals were dropped after a meeting of the ruling party at State House Nairobi, but still that was not enough to quell the enraged populace. The goal had moved from amending the punitive tax proposals, to now rejecting the entire Bill altogether.

Ruto’s populist campaign had mobilized countless unemployed and underemployed young voters—the ‘hustlers’­— with the promise of forming a government that would look out for their needs first. However, once in power, he surrounded himself with individuals more interested in plundering public resources than competent service delivery. His administration’s failure to address inherited economic challenges from the previous government, in which he was the Deputy President for ten years, further fuelled public anger.

Protest 2.0

The Gen Z-led protest in Kenya marks a radical shift in the political landscape. It is no longer about tribal allegiances or political bigwigs. Instead, it is about issues that affect daily lives, with young Kenyans leading the charge armed with smartphones and a shared sense of purpose. This digital-to-physical protest demonstrates the power of unity and the potential of digital platforms to bring about social change.

Kenya’s Gen Z did not just protest; they redefined what it means to be an activist in the 21^st century. Their movement was as much about memes and hashtags as it was about marches and placards. They used humour and creativity to undermine the authority and policies they opposed. One viral meme depicted a government minister trying to decipher TikTok, captioned: “When you realize the revolution will be choreographed.”

But this uprising was more than just a flash in the pan. It was rooted in a deep-seated frustration with systemic issues that have plagued Kenya for decades. High unemployment rates, rampant corruption, and a disconnect between the government and the youth created a perfect storm. The Finance Bill 2024 was merely the catalyst.

The protests also highlighted a generational shift. Unlike their predecessors, who might have been swayed by tribal loyalties or political rhetoric, Gen Z is driven by issues that directly impact their lives. They demand transparency, accountability, and tangible results. They are not afraid to call out leaders and have the digital tools, and dare I say cajónes, to do so effectively.

This new breed of activists is tech-savvy and globally connected. They draw inspiration from movements worldwide, from the Arab Spring to the Black Lives Matter protests. They understand the power of social media in mobilizing support and spreading their message. And they are not bound by traditional hierarchies or structures, making them unpredictable and difficult to suppress.

The government’s heavy-handed response only fueled their resolve. Scenes of police brutality were live-streamed to the world, garnering international attention and support. Human rights organizations and global media outlets picked up the story, putting pressure on the Kenyan government. The international community condemned the excessive use of force, and calls for justice grew louder.

In the face of adversity, the protesters adapted. When police blocked access to some areas, they organized flash mobs and pop-up protests in other parts of the city, stretching the security forces thin. They used encrypted messaging apps to coordinate their actions and avoid detection. And they continued to document and share their experiences, ensuring the world was watching.

The Impact

The protest movement also brought to the fore a new generation of leaders. These are not the career politicians or activists of old but ordinary young people who have stepped up to make a difference. They are students, entrepreneurs, and artists who have found their voice and are using it to demand change. Their leadership is decentralized and collaborative, reflecting the values of their generation.

The impact of the Gen Z-led protests in Kenya extends beyond the country’s borders. It has inspired similar movements across Africa, where young people face many of the same challenges. From Nigeria to South Africa, the message is clear: the youth will no longer be silent. They demand a seat at the table and a say in their future.

In the wake of the protests, the Kenyan government finds itself at a crossroads. It can continue to dismiss and suppress the voices of its youth, or it can engage with them and address their concerns. The latter will require a fundamental shift in how the government operates. It will need to embrace transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. It will need to listen to the voices of young people and involve them in decision-making processes.

There is also a need for systemic change. The issues that sparked the protests – high unemployment, corruption, and economic inequality – are deeply rooted and require long-term solutions. This will involve reforms in education, healthcare, and the economy. It will require investments in technology and infrastructure to create opportunities for the youth. And it will necessitate a commitment to good governance and the rule of law.

The former, on the other hand, risks further alienating the youth and escalating tensions. The government’s response to the protests will be closely watched, not only by Kenyans but by the international community. It will serve as a test of their commitment to democracy and human rights. A failure to address the concerns of the youth could lead to increased unrest and instability, with far-reaching consequences.

The President has already ceded to the demands of the protestors, though many have argued that it might not be genuine but out of pressure from foreign powers. The controversial bill was dropped altogether and austerity measures announced including scrapping of several unconstitutional offices like that of the First Lady, spouses of the Deputy President and Prime Cabinet Secretary, and that of Cabinet Administrative Secretaries.

He has also promised to reduce the number of government advisors by fifty percent, and ordered the auditing of all public debt with a report to be ready in three months. He also hosted a space on X (formerly Twitter) to ‘talk to the youth directly’, which had more than one hundred thousand participants. It is here that he actually showed empathy—for the first time since the protests began—with the families of those who had lost their loved ones during the demonstrations. It remains to be seen whether his pledge for radical changes is genuine or merely a typical political response to appease the masses, with the intention that once tensions subside, things will revert to their previous state.

So, what’s next?

As Kenya charts its path forward, it can draw lessons from its history. The country has a rich legacy of struggle and resilience. From the Mau Mau uprising against British colonial rule to the push for multi-party democracy in the 1990s, Kenyans have always fought for their rights and freedoms. The Gen Z-led protests represent the latest development in this ongoing story. However, while the first two took years to accomplish this latest one achieved its intended result in a record two weeks. This movement is a testament to the unyielding spirit of the Kenyan people. It shows that despite the challenges, there is a deep-seated desire for change and a better future. It also highlights the potential of Kenyan youth to drive this change.

As the immediate intensity of the protests wanes, the focus shifts to the future. The question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for these young activists who have shaken the foundations of Kenya’s political landscape? I contend that we must pause and acknowledge the significant milestone they have reached. Their bravery and ingenuity have led to a noteworthy change in the political environment of the country, serving as an inspiration to young people across Africa and other regions. This is a historic achievement that many before them had never even attempted. Instead of fixating solely on what’s next, we should celebrate this remarkable victory and draw lessons from it for future struggles.

These young protesters have accomplished something extraordinary, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Before politicians with small minds embedded the demos with goons, these youth ran the most successful protest in Kenya’s history. They are the only civil protests that covered the whole country. They have shown that with determination, creativity, and unity, it is possible to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change. This is their moment, and it deserves to be celebrated. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today.