Dj Vnyash
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah received a warm and enthusiastic welcome at the Shujaaz Memorial Concert held at Uhuru Park on Sunday. The event was organized to honor protesters who lost their lives during the recent anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
Thousands of Kenyans, mostly from the Gen Z and Millennial generations, gathered to pay their respects. Omtatah, a prominent critic of the now-repealed Finance Bill 2024, was met with loud cheers, highlighting his popularity.
Unlike some of his colleagues in the National Assembly who supported the bill and faced hostile receptions, Omtatah was celebrated. Social media videos showed him being warmly greeted by the crowd upon his arrival at Uhuru Park.
On stage, Omtatah waved to the crowd and danced to Eric Wainaina’s “Nchi ya Kitu Kidogo,” eliciting wild cheers.
The Shujaaz Memorial Concert drew a diverse audience and began with the placement of white crosses bearing the names of those who died during the protests and those still missing. Various artists, including Khaligraph Jones, Bien, Fena, Nameless, Octopizzo, Charisma, Juliani, Eric Wainaina, Sarabi Band, Graffiti Band, Mutoria, and DJ Moh, performed for the crowd.
Other performers included DJ Double Trouble, Field Marshall Band, Njerae, DJ Lordiwn, MC Kwambox, MC Kibunja, and MC Njoria.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja approved the use of Uhuru Park for the memorial concert. Kenyans turned out in large numbers, carrying and waving Kenyan flags as they enjoyed the performances.
July 7 holds significant historical importance in Kenya’s fight for democracy. It commemorates the nationwide protests on July 7, 1990, which demanded multiparty democracy in Kenya, providing an opportunity to reflect on the country’s history.
Silverio Omari
