The year 2025 unfolded with history-shaping events that left Kenyans reflecting, grieving, protesting and redefining their political expectations.
From streets filled with demonstrators to stadiums overflowing with mourners, the country experienced moments that will be remembered for generations.
1. Saba Saba protests
The Saba Saba protests returned with a force never seen before in the digital era. Sparked by frustrations over taxation, cost of living and perceived governance failures, thousands of Kenyans, especially Gen Z, marched across major towns demanding accountability.
Anti-Riot Police officers battle protesters in Nairobi. Photo: AP
What made the 2025 edition unforgettable was the scale, coordination and symbolism.
Young people used social media to mobilise nationwide, turning a historic date into a modern civic awakening.
The protests marked a turning point in citizen engagement, reshaping the political temperature of the year.
Sadly, during the protests, hundreds were killed, others seriously injured, and to some surprise, others disappeared, not to be seen again (alive).
2. Raila’s death
The death of Raila Odinga in October 2025 became the single most emotional moment of the year. After he passed away in India, the nation entered a period of deep mourning.
When his body arrived at JKIA, a sea of humanity filled the airport grounds as Kenyans cried, sang and waved flags through the night.
The late ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga. Photo: Tuko Source: Facebook
His public body viewing at Kasarani Stadium drew crowds so massive that roads were gridlocked for hours. Nyayo Stadium later overflowed as mourners sought one last glimpse of the leader many had followed for decades.
Raila’s final journey to Siaya and ultimately to Kang’o Ka Jaramogi became one of the largest national send-offs in Kenya’s history.
3. Raila’s loss in his AUC bid
Before his death, Raila had suffered a major political setback when he lost his bid to become African Union Commission chairperson.
The loss shocked many supporters who had expected a continental victory. It shifted Kenya’s diplomatic posture and dominated the national debate for weeks.
4. The 2025 by-elections
The 2025 by-elections became a defining test for both government and opposition. The broad-based government performed strongly, securing several seats.
For example, in the Mbeere North mini-poll, the United Democratic Alliance humbled the Democratic Party of Kenya’s candidate, Newton Karish, with just 494 votes. In Malava, scenes were not pleasing at all. At some point, Seth Payako could not hold it anymore. He was filmed crying and wailing loudly.
Newton Karish campaigns with Lenny Kivuti in Mbeere North. Photo: Courtesy
Now, Kasipul was worse because the margin between the number one and number two was big ,such that no sane mind would dare challenge or allege vote-stealing.
Surprisingly, the opposition’s DCP and Wiper parties captured key constituencies, signalling that political competition remained vibrant and unpredictable.
5. Assassination of Ong’ondo Were
The assassination of Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were on April 30 in Nairobi stunned the country.
It revived concerns about political violence and prompted calls for deeper investigations into threats facing public officials.
The killing marked one of the darkest political moments of the year and left a lingering sense of unease.
