Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has sparked outrage with her remarks urging Kenya’s Gen Z to “stay at home and avoid protests” ahead of the Saba Saba 2025 demonstrations, warning them not to be “used politically”.
In a statement shared on X, Nyamu reportedly said, “Don’t be used politically, Gen Z. What are you even fighting for? Stay at home and avoid protests. Police are there to protect themselves,” drawing criticism for its dismissive tone and grammatical errors.
The Gen Z protests, which gained momentum in 2024 against the Finance Bill, have evolved into a broader push against police brutality, corruption, and economic hardship.
The upcoming Saba Saba protests, marking 35 years since the 1990 pro-democracy rallies, are expected to see thousands of youth demanding President William Ruto’s resignation.
Here… pic.twitter.com/jlzXStHyBV
— MR.UMBWAKNI (@MR_UMBWAKNI) July 6, 2025
Nyamu’s remarks, perceived as belittling Gen Z’s grievances, have intensified public anger, with X users criticising her for undermining the movement.
A netizen said, “Karen Nyamu’s advice to Gen Z is tone-deaf. They’re fighting for justice, not political games,” reflecting sentiments shared by patriotic citizens.
Nyamu’s claim that police are “there to protect themselves” has raised eyebrows, especially given reports of excessive force during the June 25, 2025, protests, where Amnesty International documented 16 deaths by gunfire.
The senator’s history of controversial statements, including her defence of government policies, has made her a polarising figure.
Critics argue her remarks dismiss the legitimate concerns of Kenya’s youth, who face a 12% unemployment rate and rising living costs, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics.
As Saba Saba 2025 approaches, civil society groups and Gen Z activists are calling for peaceful demonstrations to honour victims of police violence and demand systemic change.
