Tensions Rise as More Police Deployed in Nairobi Ahead of Gen Z Anniversary Protests

In anticipation of the planned Gen Z anniversary protests on June 25, Kenyan authorities have ramped up security across Nairobi and other major towns. This comes a year after the deadly demonstrations that shook the nation and left a lasting impact on Kenya’s political and social landscape. 

According to reports, the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) is witnessing a significant build-up of security forces as the government seeks to contain any possible outbreak of violence during the upcoming protests.  

Nairobi Regional Police Commander George Seda confirmed that law enforcement is fully prepared for the demonstrations, which organizers have vowed will proceed despite earlier attempts to halt them. 

Initial plans by security officials involved sealing off parts of the city to prevent demonstrators from gathering. However, following a series of high-level consultations, authorities revised their strategy and opted to deploy more personnel instead. The goal is to allow the protests but strictly monitor and control them within designated areas and agreed-upon routes. 

To strengthen their presence, law enforcement has begun mobilizing personnel from across the country. Officers from various parts of the Central and Eastern regions have already been relocated to Nairobi. 

Furthermore, the elite General Service Unit (GSU) has been stationed in key towns to support regional police commands. Water cannons and other riot control equipment have also been moved to strategic locations in preparation for any escalation. 

The heightened police deployment underscores the government’s concern over potential unrest, especially given the emotional significance of the June 25 anniversary for Gen Z activists and their supporters.  

The previous protests were marked by a strong youth-led movement demanding accountability, economic reforms, and better governance, calls that still resonate among many young Kenyans today. 

As the country braces for another potentially tense showdown, all eyes will be on how the police handle the demonstrations and whether the organizers and security forces can navigate the protests peacefully.