Heavy Police Presence As All Roads Heading To State House Are Blocked

Nairobi, June 25, 2025 – Anti-riot police have mounted a massive security operation across Nairobi, blocking all major roads leading to State House as the country marks the first anniversary of the June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests.

The heavy-handed security deployment saw officers use razor wire to seal off key routes, while motorists and pedestrians were stopped and questioned before being turned back from approaching the seat of government.

The security operation extends beyond State House, with additional personnel strategically positioned around Parliament Buildings to prevent unauthorized access. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen was spotted conducting personal patrols across the city, accompanied by senior police commanders to assess the unfolding situation.

“This is part of our comprehensive strategy to prevent any planned march to State House,” a security official confirmed, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The visible show of force has significantly disrupted normal traffic flow, with frustrated motorists complaining about being turned back on major thoroughfares. Many have been forced to seek alternative routes, adding to the city’s congestion.

The anticipation of potential unrest has prompted widespread business closures across Nairobi’s central business district. Shop owners, fearing possible damage from protesters, have opted to keep their premises shuttered for the day.

City Hall has recalled inspectorate department workers to supplement security operations, with all personnel ordered to report in full uniform to assist with crowd control measures.

Security forces have already taken preemptive action in outlying areas. In Kitengela, police dispersed a group that had assembled as early as 7:00 AM, demonstrating the extent of the security dragnet across the metropolitan area.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja issued stern warnings on Tuesday against any attempts to access protected areas including Parliament and State House. Speaking ahead of the planned demonstrations, Kanja emphasized the legal restrictions surrounding such facilities.

“Unauthorized persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya),” Kanja stated, while acknowledging constitutional rights to peaceful assembly.

The IG sought to balance security imperatives with constitutional guarantees, referencing Article 37 which protects citizens’ rights to “peaceably and unarmed, to assemble, to demonstrate, to picket, and to present petitions to public authorities.”

However, the extensive security measures suggest authorities are taking no chances as the anniversary of last year’s youth-led protests arrives.

Today marks exactly one year since the Gen Z protests that saw unprecedented youth participation in anti-government demonstrations. The anniversary has prompted authorities to implement extraordinary security measures to prevent any repeat of the dramatic scenes that unfolded twelve months ago.

Police have assured both demonstrators and the general public of protection during the day, though the visible security presence suggests preparations for potential confrontation.

The situation remains fluid as Nairobi residents navigate the heavily secured city center, with many opting to stay home rather than risk encounters with the expanded security apparatus.