Youth across Kenya are gearing up for the planned #Nanenane protest in Nairobi and other urban centers on August 8, 2024. The mobilization began days ago, with youth appealing for support to help those unable to afford travel to Nairobi for the demonstration.
The protestors accuse the government of failing to address their concerns. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, believed by some to be behind the protests, faces accusations of being a tribal supremacist who focuses on tribal politics rather than the issues affecting Kenyans. Additionally, Raila Odinga is accused of selfish opportunism, using the efforts of Gen Z youth to place his agents in government.
Raila admitted earlier this week that he heeded President Ruto’s call to prevent the collapse of his government during previous Gen Z protests. His justification, like Gachagua’s, has been rooted in tribalism, fearing Gachagua’s ascent because he is Kikuyu. However, the Gen Z protests aim for a fresh start, free from the tribal politics that have defined the leadership of Raila, Uhuru Kenyatta, William Ruto, and Gachagua.
[presto_player id=1789]
The youth are particularly angry about Ruto appointing billionaires into his Cabinet, believing this perpetuates corruption and economic exclusion. One of the protest’s aims is to occupy Statehouse, a fear that previously united Ruto and Raila.
A mobilization video shows youth meeting at a Muslim cemetery, encouraging attendance and emphasizing unity. Morara Kebaso Snr., a young advocate in Nairobi, expressed disappointment in President Ruto’s actions post-deal with Raila: “We don’t care about the tribe of the person in power. We care about development, ending corruption, and opportunities for our youth.”
Kebaso continued, “We don’t have to wait until 2027. William Ruto will either shape up or ship out. On August 8, we will show up like sand on a continuous beach. We need to reduce the size and cost of government, not tribalize our quest for good governance.”
Despite reports of youth being mobilized by Raila’s supporters to prevent the protests, the Gen Z protestors are determined. They claim Ruto’s personal assistant, Farouk Kibet, is behind a killer squad targeting youth, although no evidence has been presented. Police units are expected to intervene in the anticipated march.
In response, some youth advocate for “Occupy People’s Assemblies” as a new method of mobilization, focusing on local governance. Meanwhile, protestors have informed Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli about the planned march.