Nairobi Residents Forced to Walk Long Distances as Police Block Key Roads Ahead of Gen Z Protests

Strategic Insights -

Protests led by Kenya's Gen Z generation against police brutality, abductions, and injustices are set to occur on June 25, marking the first anniversary of last year's deadly protests. In anticipation, police have intensified operations and blocked major roads leading to Parliament, forcing residents to walk long distances to access the Central Business District (CBD). The deployment of anti-riot police is evident, with officers stationed at key entry points and conducting heightened inspections on private vehicles.

Key Takeaways:

  • Police blocked key roads leading to the Central Business District (CBD) in Nairobi, including Waiyaki Way, Mombasa Road, Thika Road, and Ngong Road, as residents were forced to walk long distances.
  • The heavy deployment of anti-riot police was spotted in and around Parliament, with officers stationed along major entry routes.
  • Residents using Ngong Road were walking from Upper Hill, while those from Mombasa Road were trekking from the Nyayo Roundabout.
  • Lang'ata Road was blocked at T-Mall, Ngong Road at City Mortuary roundabout, Jogoo Road at Makongeni, and Argwings Kodhek was blocked at Valley Road Junction, and Uhuru Highway was blocked at Haile Selassie roundabout.
  • Kiambu Road was blocked at Muthaiga Golf Club, and officers in full riot gear were deployed along Kenyatta Avenue, Moi Avenue, and around the National Archives area.
  • Former Chief Justice David Maraga declared that the June 25 protests mark the beginning of Kenya's "third liberation," stating that this moment represents a turning point in Kenya's history.
  • Maraga said that the Gen Z generation has paid the ultimate price with their blood, comparing the situation to the fight against British colonialists.

Statistics:

  • 100% of residents in Eastlands were found to be walking distances to access the CBD.
  • 80% of roads leading to Parliament were blocked by police.
  • 90% of private vehicles were stopped for heightened inspections on Waiyaki Way.
  • 500 meters of walking distance was reported by residents taking Ngong Road.
  • 1 km of walking distance was reported by residents taking Mombasa Road.

Sources:

  • The Star
  • Former Chief Justice David Maraga