Maraga, parents of Gen Zs teargassed while honouring fallen youths

Former Chief Justice David Maraga and a group of grieving parents were forced to seek shelter at the Nation Centre after police lobbed teargas canisters at peaceful demonstrators along Kimathi Street.

Among those present were families of youths killed during the Gen Z-led protests in June 2024, including the family of Rex Masai, who was fatally shot near the same spot.

His death shocked the nation and became a defining moment for the youth-led movement.

The demonstrations held this Wednesday were solemn commemorations marking one year since the June 25, 2024 protests, when 63 people were killed by police officers, according to human rights groups.

Families and supporters had gathered to remember and honour the lives lost.

“What happened today is unfortunate. A government must accept to be criticised,” said Mr Maraga, visibly disturbed by the police action.

“There are people who died. Stopping the parents from commemorating their children does not hide that fact.”

As the crowd scattered from the choking gas, the former CJ urged Kenyans to reflect on their democratic responsibilities.

“We need to change, and change constitutionally. We can do this by voting out this government and resetting the way we operate. I want to appeal to all Kenyans to seriously think about voting in a government that will respect the law,” he said.

Despite the peaceful nature of the gathering, police responded with force, lobbing teargas at attendees — among them elderly parents, young activists, and members of the clergy.

Kenyans online and offline reacted with anger, accusing the state of insensitivity and continued repression.

Many said the incident proves that the fight for justice is far from over.