Road Closures and Security Measures Ahead of Protests
Police in Kenya have sealed off major roads leading into central Nairobi in anticipation of nationwide protests commemorating two years since the deadly Gen-Z-led anti-government demonstrations.
These barricades have disrupted the movement of motorists, leaving many commuters stranded on Thursday morning as access to the city centre was blocked by security forces. Concurrently, numerous businesses and schools remained closed.
The planned protests, largely organised via social media, are expected to take place in major urban centres including Nairobi, Mombasa, and parts of central Kenya.
Security agencies have intensified surveillance in these major towns, with police maintaining a heavy presence in Nairobi and at strategic locations.
Police officers on horseback have been actively dispersing crowds attempting to gather along Nairobi streets.
Background of the 2024 Protests
In June 2024, thousands of Kenyans protested proposed tax increases, culminating in the storming of parliament and the eventual withdrawal of the controversial finance bill.
Protesters are demanding justice for over 80 people killed and dozens injured during the 2024 anti-tax demonstrations and the subsequent anniversary protests last year.
Clashes and Police Response
Footage from a local television station shows flames and smoke rising in the Githurai area near Nairobi, where protesters lit fires during confrontations with police.
Police were observed firing tear gas to disperse crowds gathered in the area. Several individuals have been arrested by anti-riot police in Nairobi while attempting to access the city.
Deputy police chief Gilbert Masengeli stated that roadblocks were established to prevent criminals or weapons from entering the city, emphasizing that the country remains calm with citizens conducting their daily activities without disruption.
"There are no blocked roads. We are just ensuring the safety of Kenyans. We are just checking if they are carrying weapons," said Masengeli.
"I am grateful because there are no vehicles being burnt and people are going about their work," he added.
Families and Opposition Leaders Pay Tribute
Some parents who lost children during the 2024 protests have requested that the government allow them to peacefully remember their loved ones without tear gas or violent confrontations.
"We don't want tear gas and running battles in the streets. We are too old for that," one parent told journalists in Nairobi.
Opposition leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa joined families of the victims to lay wreaths at parliament in honour of those who died during the 2024 demonstrations.
Roadblocks and Government Warnings
Early on Thursday, police set up roadblocks along key routes such as the Thika Super Highway, Mombasa Road, Nairobi-Namanga Highway in Athi River, Kenyatta Avenue, Waiyaki Way, Jogoo Road, and other major roads, preventing motorists and pedestrians from accessing the city centre.
Authorities have urged protesters to remain peaceful and avoid violence, looting, or destruction of property.
President William Ruto stated on Friday that people have the right to protest but warned that anyone mobilised to destroy property or cause chaos would not be tolerated.
Several political leaders, civil society groups, and human rights organisations have expressed support for peaceful demonstrations, describing them as a democratic right protected under Kenya's constitution.
Ruto's former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, now a political rival, has urged Gen Z activists to avoid the streets due to concerns that protests could turn violent. He has called on Kenyans to stay home in a symbolic show of dissent.
Compensation Fund and Political Context
Last week, President Ruto announced a fund of nearly $15 million (£11 million) to compensate approximately 2,000 victims of protest-related human rights abuses between 2017 and 2025, as identified by rights groups.
Ruto clarified that the compensation is not a "price for life, pain or loss" and should not be interpreted as rewarding violence or criminality.
However, human rights organisations have rejected the compensation plan, citing the exclusion of some victims, inadequate payouts, and a lack of transparency.
President Ruto faces growing public discontent ahead of the 2027 elections, with critics accusing his government of failing to deliver on key campaign promises. He rejects these claims, asserting that his administration has fulfilled most pledges and stating his readiness to defend its record as he seeks re-election.
Additional Context
Kenya continues to grapple with political tensions and public unrest as it approaches the next election cycle.
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