Kisumu Remains Calm Amid Nationwide Protest Anniversary, But Tensions Disrupt Activist Briefing

While most parts of Kenya witnessed heightened tensions and mass demonstrations on Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests, Kisumu City remained relatively calm.

Businesses in Kisumu’s Central Business District (CBD) operated as usual. Shops in areas including Kachok, Kondele, and the bustling bus park remained open, with public service vehicles continuing their routes across the city. Although a few operators stayed off the roads due to uncertainty, the overall atmosphere was peaceful.

This calm contrasted with scenes in Nairobi, Nakuru, and Mombasa, where demonstrations intensified, and riot police clashed with protestors.

Kondele, a neighborhood known for political activism and demonstrations, also maintained an air of normalcy. Residents went about their routines, a sharp contrast to previous years where tear gas, running battles, and roadblocks defined protest anniversaries.

However, tensions briefly flared in the afternoon when a group of human rights activists convened a press conference at Jamhuri Park, adjacent to the Kisumu Central Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner’s office. The activists condemned alleged ongoing human rights violations including extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, calling on the government to uphold constitutional freedoms.

“We will not be silenced,” one of the activists declared. “The struggle for justice must continue regardless of attempts to intimidate or suppress our voices.”

Shortly after the presser began, a group of youths riding on motorbikes stormed the scene, accusing the activists of inciting unrest. The confrontation quickly escalated, with the activists forced to flee the venue for safety.

“We must protect our city’s peace and infrastructure,” one of the youths shouted as the group dispersed the gathering.

Despite the disruption, no injuries were reported, and the situation was contained without major incident. Police maintained a minimal presence, reportedly observing from a distance to avoid escalating the situation.

Local leaders have praised Kisumu residents for maintaining peace, urging continued restraint even as the national political climate remains volatile.

In other news: Government Threatens Media Blackout Over Protest Coverage

Kisumu Remains Calm Amid Nationwide Protest Anniversary, But Tensions Disrupt Activist Briefing