Gen Z Group Declares Independence From Politicians After Protest Anniversary
By Peace Muthoka
NAIROBI, June 26, 2026 — A section of Kenya’s Gen Z movement has announced a new phase in its activism, declaring it will distance itself from politicians and individuals it accuses of exploiting youth-led protests for personal gain.
Speaking in Nairobi on Friday, Antony Karumba, who identifies himself as “Gen Z 001” and leads the One Tribe, One Nation movement, said many young people deliberately stayed away from Thursday’s demonstrations because they believed the protests had been infiltrated by political interests.
Instead, Karumba said Gen Z supporters chose to commemorate those who lost their lives during previous demonstrations through social media tributes and candle-lighting ceremonies held in their homes and other safe locations across the country.
As a result, he described the anniversary as a turning point for the movement, saying the alternative form of remembrance helped avoid the loss of lives that had characterized earlier protests.
“We have begun a new journey,” Karumba said. “Moving forward, we will remain independent. We do not need politicians or infiltrators masquerading as activists to dictate our course.”
At the same time, he accused some activists of using the Gen Z movement to gain public visibility while exposing ordinary young protesters to danger. According to him, those mobilizing demonstrations often enjoy heavy security, while the youth they encourage to take to the streets face the greatest risks.
Karumba maintained that Thursday’s low turnout demonstrated that Gen Z members could make independent decisions without political influence or coercion. He argued that the movement had matured and was now determined to protect its members while pursuing its objectives through strategies of its own choosing.
He further said the group would continue honouring those who died during past protests but insisted future actions would be guided solely by the interests of young Kenyans rather than political agendas.
His remarks came a day after Kenya marked the anniversary of the Gen Z protests, with different groups observing the occasion through separate activities as debate continues over the future leadership and direction of the country’s youth-led movement.
