Heightened Security: Police Erect Roadblocks and Deploy Anti-Riot Units Ahead of Nairobi Protests

Police in Nairobi mounted multiple roadblocks along key highways leading to the city’s Central Business District (CBD) early Wednesday morning in anticipation of mass protests marking the anniversary of the deadly anti-Finance Bill demonstrations held last year. 

Among the roads affected were Jogoo Road, Ngong Road, Limuru Road, Kiambu Road, and Mombasa Road, where officers carried out impromptu checks and security screenings on motorists and commuters. The operation caused significant transport disruptions, with traffic coming to a near standstill in some areas. 

Commuters heading into the city faced delays, with many forced to alight and undergo thorough screening. Drivers were also asked to produce valid identification and vehicle documents at the roadblocks. 

Jogoo Road: A major checkpoint was installed near City Stadium. 

Mombasa Road: Police presence was notable near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). 

Limuru Road: Roadblock set up close to the Embassy of Israel. 

Kiambu Road: Heavy police activity near Runda Mall. 

Ngong Road: Transport was temporarily halted near the City Mortuary roundabout, causing massive gridlock. 

These measures come amid rising tension ahead of the protests, organized to commemorate one year since nationwide demonstrations erupted over the Finance Bill, which led to the deaths of several young Kenyans and sparked widespread public outrage. 

Inside the CBD, security has been further tightened, with hundreds of anti-riot police deployed around key government buildings, including Parliament and Bunge Towers, where police water cannons were stationed in anticipation of potential unrest. 

In a show of solidarity and calm, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen was seen walking through Nairobi’s city centre on his way to Harambee House, where he addressed the unfolding security situation. 

“We have a nation to keep and build,” said Murkomen. “We shall do everything to protect everyone and their livelihoods. I appreciate all our men and women in uniform who keep us all safe and secure.” 

Despite the disruptions, government officials have maintained that the increased security presence is a precautionary measure to ensure public safety and prevent chaos. However, civil society groups and human rights advocates have expressed concerns over the state’s heavy-handed approach. 

As the day unfolds, all eyes remain on Nairobi’s streets to see how the situation develops, with protestors expected to converge in the CBD to honor those who lost their lives during last year’s deadly crackdown.