NAIROBI’S UNREST: A CLASH OF PEACE AND TENSION
A usual calm Tuesday morning in Nairobi quickly turned chaotic when a group of Gen Z demonstrators took to the streets later in the day. Initially peaceful in their protest, these individuals wore white T-shirts as a symbol of peace.However,confrontations with law enforcement escalated rapidly, leading to widespread road closures across the (CBD).
The matatu operators faced disruptions as tensions increased. Major roads became inaccessible, forcing residents to embark on foot. Both vehicles and pedestrians encountered police restrictions in key areas, impacting commuters from Mombasa Road, Lang’ata Road, Ngong Road, and Valley Road.
in a seek of alternative transportation, citizens trekked to Nyayo National Stadium and City Stadium. Meanwhile, Waiyaki Way and Outering Road became points of unrest as protesters blocked these routes with stones and makeshift bonfires, severely disrupting daily life.
The initially peaceful demonstrations turned violent as clashes erupted between protesters and police.Tear gas filled the air, and incidents of theft further complicated the situation. Along Tom Mboya Street and Moi Avenue, fires broke out and stones were being thrown, heightening an already tense atmosphere.
In response to past incidents of looting during protests, CBD business owners armed themselves with wooden clubs to defend their premises.They gave stern warnings against looting and respect public safety and property.
Against this backdrop, military police stationed at Nyayo National Stadium were on standby for immediate deployment should the situation worsen. Concerned residents like Mary Mueni expressed alarm over the violence, advocating for peaceful protests while condemning actions that endanger community well-being.
Security measures around key government institutions such as State House and Parliament intensified, prompting road closures to maintain order. Concurrently, plainclothes officers on Moi Avenue employed discreet tactics to apprehend protesters amidst ongoing tensions.
The Orange Democratic Movement ODM) criticized what they saw as excessive force and arbitrary arrests by law enforcement during the protests.
