Shakira Wafula says protesters march to parliament, Ruto's office, assures of security

Activist Shakira Wafula, known for her viral confrontation with police during last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests, has confirmed she will lead a peaceful procession during Memorial Day on 25 June 2025, in honour of over 60 Kenyans who lost their lives during demonstrations.

Speaking to TNX Africa, Wafula reflected on the emotional toll of her activism, revealing that despite widespread praise for her bravery, she had been deeply afraid during the standoff that earned her national recognition.

“Many people think I’m bold, and I appreciate the compliments, but truth be told, I was really scared. I didn’t know what the police would do,” she said.

The activist criticised what she termed the excessive force used by law enforcement in both the current and past protests.

“We are the ones being provoked, so why would they expect sanity from us when they, as trained personnel, don’t come with sanity?” she remarked.

Wafula recounted the 2024 incident that sparked her rise to public prominence, where she confronted officers over the arrest of an unarmed protester.

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“In the first few minutes of the clip, we asked the police officer why they were arresting one of us and requested him to remove his mask, as required. This led to a scuffle despite trying to have a decent conversation,” she said.

With preparations for Memorial Day underway, Wafula urged Kenyans to turn up in large numbers, confirming that organisers had formally notified authorities to ensure a peaceful procession.

“The plan is to mark 25th June as a key moment in history. We’ve done our best to ensure organised security and have notified the authorities,” she stated.

Wafula added that the day will include laying flowers across various parts of Nairobi’s CBD and accompanying victims' families to Parliament and the Office of the President to present a petition.

“We are going to remember the over sixty people who died during the anti-Finance Bill protest. This is a reminder for justice and compensation, and we want the police officers responsible for the killings to be held accountable,” she said.