Tensions were high in Kenya on Thursday as police mounted roadblocks around Nairobi ahead of planned protests marking the second anniversary of deadly anti-government demonstrations in 2024.
The protests, led largely by families of victims, are demanding justice for those killed during the unrest, when at least 60 people died and protesters stormed parliament in one of the country’s most violent episodes in recent years.
On Thursday morning, major highways into the capital were blocked, restricting access to the city. Parliament buildings were barricaded, while many businesses shut down amid heightened security. The demonstrations have also reignited criticism over delays in compensation for victims of alleged human rights violations, with authorities accused of lacking transparency in the process.
President William Ruto had earlier said protests would be allowed but warned against attempts to “shut down the country,” insisting that schools and workplaces must continue operating.
Interior Minister, Kipchumba Murkomen, said police would escort demonstrators but warned against infiltration by criminal elements targeting businesses. Opposition leaders have backed the planned protests, calling for accountability and greater transparency in the compensation programme.
The 2024 unrest erupted during protests against a controversial finance bill that proposed tax increases amid rising living costs, escalating into deadly clashes between protesters and security forces.
