University students in Kakamega took to the streets following claims that they were not paid after participating in the Linda Mwananchi rally held at Amalemba Grounds.
The students alleged that they had been mobilised ahead of the event and promised payment to help recruit fellow comrades to attend the rally. The gathering was led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and attended by leaders allied to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), along with representatives from friendly political parties.
According to several protesting students, they used their time and personal resources to mobilise attendees but were not compensated after the rally as they had allegedly been promised. The group expressed frustration, accusing the organisers of failing to honour the agreement.
The students also stated that they would not allow themselves to be used for political mobilisation without clear commitments being fulfilled, especially as the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election. Some of the protesters criticised leaders for what they described as neglect of youth-related concerns.
Tensions escalated during the demonstrations after security officers intervened to disperse the crowd. Reports indicate that several individuals sustained minor injuries, though the exact number of those affected has not been confirmed.
By the time of publication, rally organisers had not issued an official response to the allegations.
The Linda Mwananchi rally drew a large crowd, with leaders addressing various political and governance issues affecting the country.