A heavy police presence was witnessed across Nairobi and other parts of the country on Wednesday as Kenyans prepared to mark one year since the deadly anti-Finance Bill protests of 2024.
The day has been earmarked by activists and civil society groups for renewed demonstrations, this time focused on police brutality and accountability.
Key access roads to Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) were sealed off early in the morning, disrupting transport and forcing commuters to alight at designated drop-off points.
Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) from Mombasa Road terminated at Haile Selassie Avenue and Nyayo House roundabouts, while those from Thika Road ended at Globe Roundabout.
PSVs using Jogoo Road concluded their routes at City Stadium.
Tight security was also observed around sensitive government installations.
Roads leading to State House were barricaded with razor wire, and Parliament buildings fortified—an echo of the breach witnessed during last year’s June 25 protests that turned chaotic.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, alongside senior security officials, arrived at Harambee House at around 5:30 a.m. to monitor the situation.
Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja addressed the nation in a brief press conference on Tuesday, urging protesters to exercise restraint and avoid restricted areas.
“Officers will act within the law to protect lives and property,” said IG Kanja, flanked by top security chiefs including DCI Director Amin Mohamed, GSU Commandant Ranson Lolmodoni, and Nairobi County Police Commander George Seda. Kanja declined to take questions from the press following his statement.
Kanja reiterated that the National Police Service was committed to facilitating lawful protests but warned against any actions that might provoke security officers or disrupt public order.
Nairobi Police Commander George Seda echoed those sentiments earlier in the week, saying officers had received formal notification of the planned demonstrations and were fully prepared to maintain peace and safety.
“We shall provide adequate security for both protesters and non-protesters,” said Seda. “Let’s ensure demonstrations remain peaceful and do not infringe on the rights of others. It is a working day—businesses, shops, and hotels will be open.”
He cautioned that violent or disruptive conduct would defeat the spirit of peaceful assembly and cast the country in a negative light.
The 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests left dozens dead and sparked international condemnation over alleged police brutality. This year’s commemorations come amid growing calls for police reform and justice for victims of excessive force.
