Former Chief Justice David Maraga has described the June 25 protests as the beginning of Kenya’s third liberation, saying the Gen Z-led demonstrations mark a defining moment in the nation’s democratic journey.

In a statement issued on the eve of the protest, Maraga said the youth movement across the country mirrors past struggles for freedom — from the fight against colonial rule to the push for multi-party democracy — and is now rooted in defending the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.

“Just like the first liberation - the fight against the British colonialists - this generation of young people, the Gen Zs, has paid the ultimate sacrifice with their blood,” he said.

“Just like the second liberation — the fight against One Party Rule and Ukoloni Mambo Leo — this generation has fought to protect the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.”

Maraga said the protest is also a tribute to those who have been abducted, tortured, maimed or killed in recent days, and that the message from young people is unmistakable — they will not be silenced.

He said their voices now echo loudly across the country, demanding change, respect, and a future anchored in justice and accountability.

The former Chief Justice strongly condemned the use of force by security agencies against peaceful demonstrators and warned that such actions could put national security at risk.

“The use of the nation's uniformed forces to disrupt peaceful demonstrations is also unconstitutional. The fundamental duty of the police service is to protect the people within our borders, and the military exists to protect the people beyond our borders,” Maraga said.

“Any deployment of uniformed forces against peaceful people is unlawful. If it happens, as it has in the past, the Commander in Chief must be held accountable.”

He also called out what he termed the deployment of goons and alleged State-sponsored militias, describing it as a dangerous path toward State failure.

Maraga said many Kenyans are fed up with what they see as a “rogue” administration that continues to violate rights and spill innocent blood.

At the same time, he urged protesters to remain peaceful and law-abiding as they take to the streets. He encouraged them to keep emergency contacts close, including those shared by the Law Society of Kenya.

“We stay committed to peace and justice,” he said. “To resetting this country to the rule of law, restoring utu, and the value of human life.”

Maraga concluded by saying the youth are not alone in their march and that both the rest of the country and the world are watching.