Police have sealed off key roads around Nairobi, cutting off the main arteries that bring commuters into the city centre ahead of a nationwide wave of Gen‑Z protests.
The demonstrations are set to mark the two‑year anniversary of the 2024 anti‑tax protests, when thousands of young people stormed Parliament and fought over a controversial finance bill. The protests left more than 80 people dead and dozens injured.
Roadblocks and clashes
Security forces erected razor‑wire perimeters and tear‑gas munitions along major highways, including the Thika Super Highway and Nairobi‑Namanga route. Motorists and pedestrians were stranded, and many businesses and schools had to shut down.
Political reaction
President William Ruto warned that anyone to “bring chaos or destruction” would not be tolerated, while announcing a five‑million‑dollar fund to compensate nearly 2,000 victims of protest‑related abuses. Critics say the plan excludes some victims and lacks transparency.
Voices from the streets
Families of the 2024 casualties have requested peaceful remembrance, and opposition leaders have joined them in laying wreaths at Parliament.
