Siaya Governor James Orengo, People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, former Makueni Governor Prof. Kivutha Kibwana, and former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga were among the prominent figures who took part in the procession through parts of the city centre.
The leaders carried placards and joined mourners calling for justice and accountability over the deaths reported during last year’s demonstrations.
Organisers say the gathering was intended to remember victims, demand compensation for affected families, and push for reforms aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
Traffic flow in sections of the CBD was affected as crowds marched along major streets, attracting the attention of traders, office workers and commuters.
Security officers were deployed in various locations to monitor the situation as demonstrators chanted slogans and sang songs in memory of those who died.
The protest also comes at a politically sensitive moment, with pressure mounting on President William Ruto’s administration ahead of the planned June 24 and June 25 activities being organised by human rights groups and youth movements.
Calls have intensified for June 25 to be formally recognised as a day of remembrance for those killed during the 2024 protests.
The demonstrations coincided with ongoing national discussions surrounding the Finance Bill 2026, which is expected to be debated and voted on by the National Assembly.
Some speakers at the rally linked the current economic and governance debates to the frustrations that initially sparked the Gen Z-led protests.
As Kenya approaches the anniversary, the events in Nairobi highlight that the legacy of the 2024 demonstrations continues to shape the country's political conversation.
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