Nairobi's central thoroughfares were largely deserted on Thursday as Kenyan police implemented extensive roadblocks and barricaded the parliament building with barbed wire. These measures were taken in anticipation of nationwide protests, predominantly organised by Gen Z activists, demanding accountability for the more than 80 individuals who died during anti-government demonstrations in 2024 and subsequent anniversary protests.
Families of the deceased sought to place flowers and wreaths near the parliament, but were reportedly denied access due to the heavy security presence. Jacinta Anyango, whose 12-year-old son was killed in clashes in 2024, expressed her desire for the government to hold responsible officers accountable. Caroline Mutisya, honouring her son Erickson, also voiced concerns about feeling unsafe expressing herself amidst the police presence.
While turnout in the capital was lower compared to previous years, protests did occur in other parts of Kenya. In Mombasa, hundreds of young people marched through the streets, dressed in black and adorned with Kenyan flags, carrying banners calling for justice and an end to extra-judicial killings. Muted demonstrations were also reported in several other locations across the country, despite the significant police deployment.
The protests coincide with the two-year anniversary of the 2024 demonstrations, which were sparked by public anger over controversial tax proposals. These earlier protests culminated in the storming of parliament and the eventual withdrawal of the finance bill, but were marred by accusations of excessive force by security forces. A BBC investigation at the time suggested police had deliberately targeted protesters, and dozens were reportedly abducted, some later found dead or badly beaten.
President William Ruto had stated last Friday that citizens have a right to protest but issued a warning against any mobilisation intended to destroy property or cause chaos. Deputy police chief Gilbert Masengeli explained that roadblocks were in place to prevent criminals or weapons from entering Nairobi, asserting that the country remained calm. However, isolated clashes between police and protesters, involving tear gas and stone-throwing, were reported in pockets of the capital, with footage showing fires lit in some areas.
Opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka and Martha Karua, joined families and a small group of activists in their march towards parliament. Meanwhile, Rigathi Gachagua, President Ruto's former deputy and now a political rival, urged Gen Z activists to avoid the streets, citing concerns about potential violence, and instead called for a symbolic stay-at-home protest.
Source: BBC