Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has called on the government to compensate the families of those killed or injured during the 2024 Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill, urging closure to what he termed a “painful chapter” in Kenya’s history.
Speaking during the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County, Odinga acknowledged recent steps toward national reconciliation, including apologies made at the National Prayer Breakfast earlier in the week.
However, he insisted that genuine healing requires more than words.“Your Excellency, there have been apologies by the Speaker and yourself, which are a wonderful first step,” said Odinga, addressing President William Ruto, who was in attendance. “But then there is the issue of people who were injured and people who died during that time. We should compensate the families of those who died and those who were injured, so that we can have closure of this chapter of our national history.”
Odinga’s remarks referred to the June 25, 2024 protests, which saw thousands of young Kenyans—largely from Generation Z—take to the streets in opposition to tax measures in the Finance Bill. The demonstrations turned deadly, with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirming that at least 60 protesters were killed in a single day. Over 200 were injured during the countrywide unrest.
President Ruto, speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast held at Safari Park Hotel, appeared to acknowledge government missteps. “To our children, if there has been any misstep, we apologise,” Ruto said. “Where there is unity, God commands a blessing.”But civil society groups and human rights activists have criticised the president’s remarks, terming them insufficient.
They argue that the administration has yet to take responsibility for the violent crackdown, with only two cases having reached court. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is reportedly still reviewing dozens of IPOA files.
Families of at least 25 victims are expected to present a petition to Parliament on June 25, 2025—exactly one year after the protests—demanding justice and compensation.
Odinga linked the tragedy to Kenya’s broader historical struggle for justice, reminding the nation that Madaraka Day commemorates not just self-governance, but also the ideals of unity, peace, and accountability as enshrined in the National Anthem.
