A planned gathering by young Kenyans to discuss youth unemployment was thwarted by police in Nairobi on Thursday. The event, dubbed the National Jobless Rally, was organized by the Concerned Youth Movement and was scheduled to take place at Uhuru Park. However, authorities blocked the meeting, citing lack of permission and failure to meet the requirements of the Public Order Act.
According to Central Police boss Stephen Okal, the organizers submitted their request late, and upon review, the authorities determined that the event could not proceed. “They did not meet the legal requirements, and therefore, their gathering could not be allowed,” Okal stated.
Led by youth activists Arnold Maliba and Kennedy Ondieki, the group had planned to use the event as a platform to voice their grievances over rising unemployment and economic hardships. When denied entry to the venue, they addressed the media at the park’s entrance, criticizing the Kenya Kwanza government for failing to create opportunities for young people.
A strong contingent of anti-riot police officers was deployed at Uhuru Park early in the morning to prevent access to the grounds. Officers inspected individuals seeking entry, leading to heightened tensions between law enforcement and the protesters. Despite being blocked, the youth vowed to hold the rally at a later date, rescheduling it for Monday.
Speaking to the press, the young activists expressed their frustration with the government’s handling of economic challenges affecting the youth. “The promises made to young people remain unfulfilled. The cost of living is unbearable, and opportunities for employment are shrinking daily,” one protester lamented.
The Concerned Youth Movement insisted that their rally was peaceful and aimed at drawing attention to urgent employment issues. They argued that suppressing their voices would not resolve the crisis but would instead worsen the growing discontent among Kenya’s youth.
The government’s handling of youth unemployment remains a contentious issue, with many young people feeling abandoned despite campaign pledges to create jobs. As frustrations mount, the coming days may see further efforts by youth groups to demand action from the government on employment and economic stability.
