On June 25, 2025, Kenya experienced widespread protests across at least 27 counties, marking the first anniversary of the deadly 2024 demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill. These youth-led 'Gen Z' protests aimed to honor the dozens killed in the previous year, demand justice for victims, and voice strong opposition to the government’s handling of rising living costs, alleged corruption, unfulfilled promises, and persistent police brutality. Thousands took to the streets in major urban centers like Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret, chanting anti-government slogans and carrying placards.

The government's response to the demonstrations was characterized by a heavy-handed police crackdown. Officers deployed tear gas, water cannons, and live bullets to disperse crowds, leading to significant casualties. Reports confirmed at least 8 to 11 deaths, with some estimates suggesting higher figures. Fatalities occurred in various locations, including Matuu (Machakos County), Eldoret (Uasin Gishu County), Nairobi (Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Pipeline), Nakuru, Nyeri (Othaya), Nyandarua (Ol Kalou), and Molo. Among the deceased were a Kenya Power guard, a Form Three student, a high school student, and several protesters. Over 400 individuals sustained injuries, including a journalist hit by a tear gas canister. Human rights groups documented cases of forced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and alleged torture, condemning the use of live ammunition against unarmed civilians as unlawful and counterproductive.

The protests drew significant attention from prominent figures. Retired Chief Justice David Maraga notably joined demonstrators in Nairobi, emphasizing his support for young people to lead change not only on the streets but also in political leadership. Maraga, who has declared his interest in the 2027 presidential race, has been vocal on national issues, advocating for fidelity to the Constitution, social justice, and accountability. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, flanked by other opposition figures, also led commemorations, condemning state-backed killings and abductions. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, through his Democracy for Citizens Party, issued demands for an immediate end to police brutality, restoration of media operations, and justice for victims, criticizing the Communication Authority of Kenya's (CA) temporary shutdown of live media coverage, which was later overturned by the High Court.

The demonstrations severely impacted daily life and governance. Business operations were largely paralyzed in affected towns, with widespread shop closures due to security fears. Looting and property destruction were reported, including a boutique owner in Nairobi who lost goods worth millions. In Nairobi, the National Assembly was forced to prematurely adjourn its morning sitting amid fears of a second breach of parliamentary precincts, which were heavily fortified with razor wire and armed officers. The Katiba Institute filed a lawsuit against the government, challenging the police's decision to barricade roads into Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) as unconstitutional and a violation of rights to peaceful assembly and movement.

While the government, through officials like Nelson Koech of the National Assembly's Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, defended its right to maintain order and criticized foreign offices for perceived interference in domestic matters, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) announced investigations into the reported deaths. The protests highlighted the persistent discontent over living costs and governance, putting pressure on President William Ruto's administration to address systemic frustrations. The struggle for justice continues for families who lost loved ones in both the 2024 and 2025 protests, with many still awaiting official communication or accountability. Despite the turmoil, some unique incidents occurred, such as a man proposing to his girlfriend amid the chaos on Thika Road and a TikTok user receiving a job offer after sharing her struggles with joblessness, reflecting resilience amidst national upheaval.