NAIROBI, Kenya – Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has downplayed reports of restricted access into Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), saying movement into the city remains open and unrestricted — despite widespread disruptions on Monday morning.
“Everyone is getting to work without any issues. No one is being turned away,” Masengeli told reporters, urging demonstrators to remain peaceful. “We are asking Kenyans to follow the rule of law.”
DIG Gilbert Masengeli has claimed that no one has been blocked from accessing Nairobi’s CBD during the Saba Saba protests, insisting that movement remains open to all.#SabaSaba2025 #77NiNumbers
But a different picture played out on the ground.
From as early as 5 a.m., motorists encountered roadblocks on all major routes leading into the city, including Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way, Thika Road, Jogoo Road, Kenyatta Avenue, Uhuru Highway, Kiambu Road, Limuru Road, and Valley Road.
Police allowed only government and emergency vehicles through, leaving hundreds of commuters stranded, with many forced to walk long distances to reach their workplaces.
Some businesses in the CBD remained shuttered, with storefronts barricaded with metal grills, as fears of potential looting resurfaced following previous Gen Z-led protests.
One hotel employee said he had to walk from Westlands to the city centre after matatus were blocked at Kangemi.
“The road was closed near Kangemi. I had to leave the matatu and walk the rest of the way,” he said.
Police sources at one of the roadblocks confirmed that orders had been issued to limit access by vehicles into the city as a “precautionary measure.”
The heightened security comes ahead of the planned Saba Saba protests, with fears of renewed clashes following weeks of anti-government demonstrations across Kenya.
Meanwhile, Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes CS Geoffrey Ruku on Sunday dismissed speculation that Monday, July 7, had been declared a public holiday.
“I want to call upon all public servants in the Republic of Kenya: tomorrow, Monday, is not a public holiday. We are expected to report to work at 8 a.m. and remain there until 5 p.m.,” Ruku said during an event attended by President William Ruto in Embu.
