Heavy police deployment and security checkpoints disrupted daily activity in Kitengela on Thursday, as authorities sought to prevent unrest during commemorations marking the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests.
Footage shows long queues of vehicles backed up at police checkpoints, officers laying spike barriers across the road and armed security personnel patrolling the town. Public transport was hit, while many businesses were closed.
“No one who is prevented from demonstrating or picketing, because it is allowed by the law, as long as we follow what is allowed by Article 37 of our Constitution,” stressed Inspector General Douglas Kanja.
“I’m happy to report that even in Nairobi town, I have seen Kenyans laying wreaths and flowers there, and they were escorted by police in a peaceful way, and I’m happy,” he added.
Kitengela has witnessed violent protests in the past, with several young people killed during unrest. Police said Thursday’s operation was intelligence-led and designed to prevent fresh clashes.
“All the areas that I’ve visited, they are very okay. The reports that I’m getting from the commanders in the field are that everything is running okay,” the Inspector General noted.
Meanwhile, some residents said the heavy security presence had emptied the streets and cut into their livelihoods.
“There has been heavy police presence, such that even we haven’t had our regular customers. People have been arrested just for walking on the road, scaring away customers,” claimed Collins Oktemere, a motorcycle taxi rider.
The June 25 commemorations honour those killed during the 2024 Gen Z protests, which culminated in the storming of parliament and a police crackdown that left dozens dead.
Authorities say the latest security measures are aimed at preventing renewed unrest, while calls for justice and accountability continue.
Source: Viory
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