ensions ran high at the historic Kamukunji Grounds on Monday as thousands of youths gathered to mark Saba Saba Day with a renewed sense of urgency and defiance. Among the many voices that pierced the air, one statement stood out for its raw honesty and emotion: “Nimekuja niskie Raila akitetea Ruto! Ruto anafaa ajue Gen Z hawakuandamana ndio hawa wazee wapate kazi.”
According to a report by KTN News on Monday, July 7, 2025, the statement was made by a Mathare resident during the commemoration. It captured the deep frustration among youth who felt that their movement was at risk of being hijacked by political figures pursuing their own agendas.
The speaker, clearly agitated, called out ODM leader Raila Odinga, warning against defending President William Ruto at a time when Gen Z had taken to the streets to demand genuine change. “We didn’t protest so that retired politicians or party loyalists can secure government appointments,” the protester added, sparking cheers from the crowd.
The Saba Saba protests, once largely symbolic, have taken on a new face in 2025, led by a tech-savvy and politically aware generation tired of recycled leadership and empty promises. The youth at Kamukunji were united by one cause demanding accountability, not alliances.
Their message was clear: the current struggle is not about political loyalty, but about economic justice, inclusion, and integrity. Many fear that traditional leaders like Raila could dilute the movement’s urgency by softening their stance on the administration.
Whether Raila responds or not, the voices at Kamukunji have sent a clear message Gen Z is not here to be used as a ladder for political negotiations. They are here to reclaim their future.
By Kenayns