Wanjigi backs June 25 memorial protests, says Gen Z movement 'unstoppable'

Safina Party leader Jimi Wanjigi has urged Kenyans to participate in the planned June 25 memorial protests, describing them as a continuation of the Gen Z-led movement that emerged during the anti-Finance Bill demonstrations of 2024.

Wanjigi, in a statement issued on Sunday, said the protests marked a turning point in Kenya's political and economic history, arguing that they had disrupted what he termed the country's old political and economic order.

"It must be clear to this administration, the June 2024 Gen Z democratic fiscal justice protests broke the old political and economic order. We have a new Kenya and you better shape up or shape out," Wanjigi said.

He also paid tribute to protesters who lost their lives during the demonstrations, saying Kenyans should honour their sacrifice by continuing to push for reforms.

"We unfortunately lost over 60 young people in June 2024 fighting for a better Kenya. They were hopeful, courageous and patriotic Kenyans, we must actualize their dream of a better Kenya," he said.

Wanjigi further criticised President William Ruto over recent remarks directed at those planning to participate in demonstrations, insisting that the government should protect constitutional rights rather than threaten protesters.

The 2027 presidential aspirant also condemned the latest fire at Nairobi's Gikomba market, terming it an attack on the livelihoods of thousands of traders.

Wanjigi alleged that the recurring fires were linked to unnamed individuals seeking control of the market land.

"This morning, we woke up to yet another fire tragedy in Gikomba market. This is economic destruction of the people," he said.

The businessman noted that the market held special significance to his family, saying his late father, former Kamukunji MP Maina Wanjigi, played a key role in establishing and defending both Gikomba and Kamukunji Jua Kali markets from attempts to evict traders.

"The intentional, unacceptable and horrendous Gikomba fires must be stopped forever," he stated.

Wanjigi further renewed his opposition to the passed Finance Bill 2026 and the recently approved 2026/27 national budget, which he described as unconstitutional.

He claimed the budget had been passed illegally and accused lawmakers of ignoring public objections to proposed tax measures contained in the Finance Bill.

"The FY 2026/27 Budget that was passed by a cancelled National Assembly is fake and unconstitutional. We, the people of Kenya, must rise up and reject it," he said.

The Safina leader further called for an end to what he termed "debt colonialism", arguing that Kenya's growing debt burden had trapped citizens in economic hardship.

"The march to economic sovereignty began with Gen Z. It is unstoppable," Wanjigi said.