It was like nothing Nakuru had ever seen before, business literally came to a standstill and this time it was not because of a flamboyant preacher known for his penchant for dramatic entrances with his entourage.

The mammoth crowd started at Nakuru Railway Grounds and made its way through Kenyatta Avenue, the KFA roundabout and on to State House.

All chanting with one voice in protest against the Finance Bill. If you were in Nakuru yesterday then you witnessed the demonstrations that took place. Why is this a big deal, you might ask.

A group of young people who took part in the protests against the finance bill in Nakuru.

Photo credit: Bret Sanya/Mtaa Wangu

In this quiet city, until recently, it was highly unlikely that people would take to the streets to demonstrate about anything.

Last year we did see some protest action during Maandamano. But the demonstrations only took place in Nakuru West, which is considered an opposition stronghold.

Fast forward to a year later and the script was flipped as Gengetone artistes Wakadinali sang Kuna siku mayouth wataungana! June 20, 2024 was indeed the day they had imagined.

A group of young people who took part in the protests against the finance bill in Nakuru.

Photo credit: Bret Sanya/Mtaa Wangu

This time the faces leading the protests were not the normal people who always turn up, they were young faces, anger and hopelessness written all over their faces, walking in groups, some barely in their 20s, shouting at the top of their voices with a common message: "Reject the Finance Bill".

Gen Zs is their name. They bring a whole new perspective to the maandamanos we are used to. From the way they dressed to the way they walked and the way they generally behaved, it was a whole new concept.

A group of young people who took part in the protests against the finance bill in Nakuru.

Photo credit: Bret Sanya/Mtaa Wangu

Compared to other protests where only a few people from one sub-district participated, this time the protests managed to bring the entire city centre and its surroundings to a standstill. It involved young people from all parts of the county, who took to most of the main roads and streets.

Bringing sanity to what most liken to loss of life and destruction of property. For most of the protest, those stationed at various key points such as the Nakuru County Assembly stood and watched as the peaceful protesters passed by.

This youthful voice, it seems, is not afraid to assert its authority in order to be heard. Heralding the beginning of a new era that we all look forward to.

Could this be the beginning of a new era for Nakuru?

Author Spotlight

Bret Sanya