The atmosphere in Mombasa was charged with fervor as Gen Z protestors took to the streets, rallying against the controversial finance bill.
The demonstration, which had initially begun peacefully, took a dramatic turn when a civilian, visibly agitated, was captured on camera firing live bullets into the crowd. Panic ensued, and the once-organized protest turned chaotic as people scrambled for cover.
The sight of the civilian wielding a firearm ignited a surge of outrage among the protestors. Fueled by a mix of fear and anger, they quickly mobilized to confront the aggressor.
A group of protestors managed to disarm him, their collective strength overpowering his lone resistance. In the ensuing struggle, one of the protestors set fire to the assailant’s car, a symbolic act of defiance against what they perceived as an unprovoked attack on their peaceful demonstration.
The incident was widely shared on social media, with footage and images circulating rapidly. Hashtags related to the protest and the shooting trended as the nation watched in shock and solidarity.
The response from the protestors was seen as both a defense of their rights and a statement against the use of excessive force.
Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, promising to hold those responsible accountable. Meanwhile, the protestors have vowed to continue their fight, undeterred by the violence.
The events in Mombasa have underscored the high stakes of the current political climate in Kenya, where young people are increasingly at the forefront of advocating for change.
