NAIROBI, Kenya – Anti-riot police were deployed early Wednesday to block key roads leading to State House and Parliament, in anticipation of mass protests marking the first anniversary of last year’s Gen Z-led demonstrations against the Finance Bill.
Security personnel braved the morning chill, using razor wire to cordon off access routes to the house on the hill.
Police also stopped and questioned motorists and pedestrians, turning away some without official clearance.
Authorities say the heightened security is part of a broader strategy to prevent any attempts to march to protected zones such as State House and Parliament, which remain off-limits to unauthorised persons under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204).
Additional deployments were visible around Parliament Road, with officers stationed to block entry by unauthorised individuals.
Businesses across Nairobi’s central business district remained closed for fear of unrest, with most shopfronts shuttered.
In a show of state preparedness, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen toured parts of the capital at dawn, accompanied by senior police commanders.
He also visited the Inspector General’s office at Jogoo House, as part of efforts to monitor the evolving situation.
Meanwhile, City Hall recalled members of its inspectorate department, instructing them to report in full uniform to support ongoing operations.
Elsewhere, in Kitengela, authorities said they dispersed a group of would-be protesters as early as 7am, underscoring the government’s zero-tolerance approach to unauthorised gatherings near key installations.
Inspector General of Douglas Kanja, speaking Tuesday, had warned demonstrators to steer clear of restricted areas, even as he reiterated the right of every Kenyan to peaceful protest.
“It is important to note that unauthorised persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the law,” said Kanja. “However, Article 37 of the Constitution guarantees every person the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions—peaceably and unarmed.”
The police chief promised full support for officers on duty and assured the public that both demonstrators and non-demonstrators would be protected during the anniversary events.
The June 25 protests commemorate last year’s deadly anti-Finance Bill demonstrations, in which at least 61 people were killed, according to human rights groups.
Organisers of Wednesday’s protests say they are demanding justice for victims, lower taxes, and greater youth inclusion in policymaking.
