By Valerian Khakayi

A nationwide night vigil has been planned to honour the Gen Z protesters who lost their lives during the anti-government June 25 demonstrations, with Kenyans set to gather in remembrance on the eve of the anniversary.

The vigil, scheduled for Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 7:00 pm onwards, aims to remember the young lives lost, the dreams cut short and the futures that never had the chance to unfold.

According to a poster shared by Ademba Allans, on Monday, June 22, 2026, the event carries the message remembrance of hope, calling on Kenyans to light candles as a symbol of honour, reflection and a commitment to a better future.

“Light a candle for every life lost. Light a candle for every dream interrupted. Light a candle for every child whose future must be protected. Light a candle for the Kenya we refuse to give up on,” the poster reads.

The vigil is expected to bring together citizens across the country in a peaceful moment of mourning and solidarity as they remember the events of June 25 and pay tribute to those who died.

June 25th anniversary

The planned remembrance comes as the country marks one year since the historic Gen Z-led protests that sparked a national conversation on governance, accountability and the role of young people in shaping Kenya’s future.

Opposition leaders and activists have announced plans to mark the anniversary through memorial events and marches in honour of those who lost their lives during the demonstrations.

Speaking on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Siaya governor James Orengo called for June 25 to be declared a public holiday in honour of Kenyans killed during the 2024 Gen Z protests.

He said that the country should formally recognise the young people who died during demonstrations against the Finance Bill and broader governance concerns.

He argued that Kenya already commemorates key historical events and should also remember citizens who lost their lives while exercising their constitutional rights.

“We urged, like the mothers did, those who listened to what Mother Kennedy said. She said that the 25th and then the next day, the 26th, should be a public holiday,” Orengo said.

“I am pleading with Kenyans to either take part in the demonstrations or mark that day from their homes so that we show the entire world that Kenya cannot live in a situation where impunity is not punished.” K24