Kenyans living in the Nairobi Metropolitan area might not be able to access the Nairobi Central Business District or nearby areas as the country prepares for the Saba Saba protests.
From early Monday morning, many roads seemed blocked or heavily guarded, making it hard for residents, workers, and businesspeople to reach their destinations.
Reports show that the capital was already feeling tense as early as 6 am, with movement in and out of the city centre slowed down by security checks and police presence.
Heavy deployment of police officers was seen at key locations including the Nyayo Stadium junction, Pangani, the Kenyatta Hospital roundabout, and roads leading to State House.
The presence of armed officers and police vehicles suggested that the government was not taking any chances.
Security agencies are clearly prepared for any possible unrest that could arise during the Saba Saba events.
ODM party leader Raila Odinga had earlier appealed to the public not to protest in the streets but instead gather peacefully at Kamkunji Grounds, where he promised to join them.
While addressing the media on Sunday, Odinga said that the dream of Saba Saba remains unfulfilled and that many of the struggles that led to the 1990 protests still exist.
These include economic challenges, limited job opportunities, and continued human rights violations.
He added that the frustrations of the younger generation, especially Gen Z, are real and deserve attention.
However, it is not yet clear if the Gen Z protestors will listen to Raila’s request. In recent weeks, they have shown a strong will to organize independently, sometimes ignoring political leaders.
There are concerns that groups might still take to the streets despite the calls for a peaceful gathering.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Sunday called for peace and warned against blaming police officers who act to maintain order. He said anyone causing violence or property destruction would face legal action.
His message was firm: the right to protest must not be used as an excuse to disrupt peace.
Meanwhile, several schools across Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret have advised parents to keep children at home for safety reasons.
The move comes as fear of unrest grows across major towns. At the same time, the government has warned civil servants that they must report to work as usual or face disciplinary action, showing that despite the uncertainty, official duties must continue.
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