Anti-riot police deployed tear gas and fired warning shots to disperse demonstrators in Githurai on Thursday, leading to major disruptions along the Thika Road corridor as Kenyans marked the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024, Gen Z-led anti-government protests.
The demonstrations began near the Githurai roundabout, where protesters lit bonfires and blocked sections of the highway. Police moved in to clear the area, triggering confrontations during which some demonstrators reportedly threw stones at security officers.
The standoff brought traffic to a standstill along parts of Thika Road, forcing many commuters to seek alternative routes. Several public service vehicles suspended operations temporarily as authorities attempted to restore order.
Business activity in Githurai was also affected, with a number of traders closing shops amid fears of unrest and possible property damage.
“It is better to close business for the day than risk losing stock,” said a trader operating near the Githurai overpass.
The demonstrations coincided with nationwide memorial activities marking the anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax protests, which drew thousands of young Kenyans onto the streets and resulted in deadly confrontations between protesters and security agencies.
The renewed protests come amid continued public debate over accountability for victims of previous demonstrations. Civil society groups have maintained calls for investigations and legal action against officers accused of excessive use of force during earlier protests.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has previously stated that the government respects the constitutional right to peaceful assembly while emphasizing the need to protect lives and property during public demonstrations.
Security agencies maintained a visible presence in several parts of Nairobi throughout the day as authorities monitored the situation.
What It Means
The disruptions in Githurai highlight the continued significance of youth-led political activism in Kenya and the challenges authorities face in balancing public order with constitutional freedoms. The demonstrations also reflect ongoing concerns surrounding accountability, economic pressures, and citizen-government relations.
What’s Next
Authorities are expected to maintain heightened security in Nairobi and other urban centers as anniversary-related activities continue. Human rights organizations and civil society groups are likely to continue pushing for greater transparency and accountability regarding past protest-related incidents.
