- Key roads into the Nairobi CBD have been sealed off, leaving commuters stranded.
- Only emergency and government vehicles are allowed through major entry points.
- Opposition leader Raila Odinga insists on marking Saba Saba at Kamukunji Grounds.
- Schools are shut, businesses are closed, and security presence has intensified across the capital.
- Citizens complain of long treks and halted public transport.
Despite the government’s earlier statement that Monday, July 7, would remain a normal working day, Nairobi woke up to a tightly guarded city. Several roads leading into the Central Business District were blocked by police, leaving thousands of residents stuck outside or forced to walk long distances to access the town.
Major routes like Waiyaki Way, Mombasa Road, Jogoo Road, and Thika Road saw officers turning away both private and public vehicles. Only emergency and official government vehicles were allowed through.
A senior police officer, speaking off the record, said the move was based on security reports suggesting that groups intending to join the Saba Saba protests planned to blend in as ordinary commuters.
“We’re not taking chances. The goal is to stop chaos before it starts,” the officer said.
The 35th Saba Saba anniversary has become a rallying point for youth-led protests calling for reforms, better governance, and an end to police violence.
Raila Holds Firm on Kamukunji Plans
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who played a major role in the original 1990 Saba Saba movement, reaffirmed his intention to mark the day at Kamukunji Grounds.
“Saba Saba is not just history. It’s a reminder that the struggle for justice, democracy, and dignity continues,” Raila stated in a message shared on Sunday night.
Empty Streets, Closed Doors
With the looming protests and heavy security, most schools in Nairobi suspended classes while businesses in the CBD kept their doors shut. Several shops placed metal barricades over entrances, anticipating possible vandalism or looting.
Faith, a restaurant worker from Imara Daima, told us she had to walk for more than an hour to reach her job.
“There were no matatus on the road. We just walked because staying home wasn’t an option,” she shared.
By mid-morning, Nairobi’s usually noisy and crowded streets were unusually quiet, with the city under what felt like a partial lockdown. With Kamukunji still expected to host opposition figures and protesters, many are holding their breath to see whether the day ends peacefully or with more confrontation.
The government maintains it is only acting to prevent disruptions, but civil society groups and rights watchdogs say the clampdown is only worsening public frustration.
