Veteran trade union leader Francis Atwoli has surprised many Kenyans after revealing that his lastborn daughter, Maria, was among the young people who stormed Parliament during the 2024 anti-government Gen Z protests.
Atwoli made the remarks while attending a public function where he introduced his daughter to the audience. Speaking in a light-hearted manner, he narrated how he discovered that Maria had joined the historic demonstrations that shook the country.
According to Atwoli, his daughter sent him a photo from inside Parliament on the day protesters breached the premises. Recalling the moment, he said, “Alinionyesha picha akaniambia, ‘Daddy tumeingia kwa haka kabunge kenu leo.’”
The statement left many people at the event laughing. Atwoli further explained that after learning about his daughter’s involvement in the protests, he decided to bring her closer to him.
“Nikamleta huku akili yake irudi chini,” he joked, drawing more laughter from the crowd.
The revelation has sparked reactions online, with many Kenyans finding it interesting that even the children of prominent leaders participated in the Gen Z demonstrations. Others praised Maria for expressing her views and taking part in a movement that attracted thousands of young people across the country.
The 2024 Gen Z protests became one of the most significant youth-led movements in Kenya’s recent history. The demonstrations were largely driven by young people who opposed government policies and demanded greater accountability from leaders.
Atwoli’s comments offered a rare glimpse into how the protests affected families from different backgrounds, including those of influential public figures. His humorous narration also highlighted the generational differences in political engagement between parents and their children.
As the story continues to attract attention, many Kenyans have described Maria as a bold young woman who was not afraid to stand up for what she believed in.