Comedian-turned-activist Eric Omondi is rallying Kenyans to attend his rival Mashujaa Day celebration, scheduled for Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Uhuru Park, Nairobi.
The comedian’s highly anticipated event is set to commemorate the youth who lost their lives during the Gen Z-led anti-government protests in June 2024.
“Calling upon Kenyans from all corners of this nation to join us as we celebrate our fallen heroes at Uhuru Park this Sunday, 20th. Carry a flag and a candle. The program starts at 9 am. Don’t miss,” he announced.
The dress code for the event is black and attendees are expected to carry flags and candles.
Omondi’s event
Omondi, who has been at the forefront of youth activism, first announced the event on October 1, 2024. According to him, the gathering is not only a remembrance of the young Kenyans who died during the protests but also a platform to call for justice.
“This is a moment to honour our fallen heroes. Every generation has its heroes, and these are ours.”
The protests, which took place outside the Kenyan Parliament, saw large numbers of young people taking to the streets, demanding government reforms. The clashes between protestors and security forces turned deadly, leaving several young lives lost.
In a video posted online, Omondi was seen singing a reworked version of Wimbo wa Historia while standing in a cemetery. The song reflects on the events of June 25, with Omondi mentioning the names of some of those who perished during the protest march to parliament.
“As they celebrate Mashujaa Day on October 20, we will also host a mega event to celebrate our heroes! Our shujaas!” Omondi stated in his caption.
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the protests claimed 39 lives, nearly twice the number previously reported by the government. The KNCHR also revealed that 361 people were injured between June 18 and July 1, while there were 32 cases of enforced disappearances and 627 arrests.
Mashujaa Day
This year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations will take place in Kwale County. The National Celebrations Steering Committee, led by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, alongside Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, recently inspected the ongoing construction of Kwale Stadium, which is being prepared to accommodate at least 10,000 attendees.
Mashujaa Day, or Heroes’ Day, is observed annually on October 20 to honour individuals who played a significant role in Kenya’s independence struggle and those who have contributed positively to the country post-independence.
