Linda Mwananchi's faction leaders during a rally in Nakuru /HANDOUT
The Linda Mwananchi movement has postponed planned rallies in Kisii and Keroka scheduled for June 26, citing the need to stand in solidarity with victims of the 2024 Gen-Z protests and their families during upcoming commemoration activities.
“We wish to inform our members, supporters and the public at large that the Linda Mwananchi Kisii and Keroka rallies scheduled for Friday, June 26, 2026 have been postponed to Friday, July 3, 2026,” the statement said.
The movement said it would join other Kenyans “of goodwill” in commemorating victims of the Gen-Z demonstrations and called for peaceful observance of the anniversary.
Linda Mwananchi, however, raised concerns about possible violence during the commemorations, alleging that participants could face intimidation or excessive force from security agencies.
“We are alert to potential police and state-sponsored brutality and violence against the victims and their families during the commemoration activities,” the statement said.
The group further noted that it anticipated arrests during the planned remembrance events and urged participants to remain vigilant throughout the period.
The movement called on law enforcement agencies to guarantee the safety of all Kenyans taking part in the commemorations.
“We call upon the police to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens who will participate in the peaceful commemoration activities,” it said.
Linda Mwananchi also criticised the government's approach to compensating victims of the protests, arguing that financial assistance alone was insufficient without justice and accountability.
“We are deeply disappointed by the government’s decision to offer limited monetary assistance to the victims and their families without ensuring that justice is done and accountability upheld,” the statement added.
The movement maintained that lasting reconciliation can only be achieved through transparency accountability, and a commitment to prevent future abuses.
The statement also addressed internal political developments within the ODM party, revealing that a decision by the party's National Executive Committee to remove one of its officials would be challenged in court.
“There is no pathway to reconciliation and a commitment never to repeat the killings and injure innocent Kenyans,” the statement said.
