Protesters Break Through Police Barriers in Kitengela and Kisii Amid Nationwide Tensions
In a tense showdown across several Kenyan towns, police officers in Kitengela and Kisii were overwhelmed after firing tear gas in an effort to disperse large crowds of angry and defiant youth who took over the towns’ central areas.
Despite police efforts to seal off key roads entering and leaving the towns, thousands of young protesters emerged in full force. They managed to push through heavily guarded police roadblocks, completely overpowering the security forces.
In Kitengela, protesters blocked roads using burning tyres and stones, paralyzing transport and business activities. Many business owners were forced to shut down their shops out of fear of being attacked or looted as tensions grew throughout the day.
Even with thick clouds of tear gas hanging in the air, the determined protesters refused to back down. They played a relentless cat-and-mouse game with the police, who struggled to contain the situation.
A spot check by Kenyans.co.ke observed some police officers drawing their firearms during confrontations with the aggressive demonstrators. However, it was not immediately clear whether they were using rubber bullets or live ammunition.
Residents in the affected areas expressed fear and frustration as access to basic services was cut off. Some urged the police to take stronger action, arguing that the demonstrations were no longer peaceful but had turned criminal.
“These protests no longer seem to be about grievances. They’re criminal. Our children can’t go to school, there’s no way to buy food or get any essentials,” said one concerned businessman while speaking to reporters.
Protest Chaos Also Hits Kisii
In Kisii town, the situation mirrored Kitengela, with protesters flooding the town centre and disrupting normal life. Businesses remained closed, and streets were filled with crowds chanting slogans and songs aimed at criticising the government.
Despite the presence of heavily armed riot police from multiple units, the demonstrators carried on with little concern. They waved flags, blew whistles, and moved through the town freely while the police maintained a close watch and patrolled in vehicles.
Due to the chaotic environment, schools in the area were closed, and children had to stay home as classrooms remained empty throughout the day.
Contrasting Scenes Across the Country
Meanwhile, in Kisumu, another group of youths held a peaceful procession, carrying banners and calling on young people in other counties to end the violent protests. They insisted that they wanted to maintain peace in their city and wouldn’t tolerate chaos in their communities.
Back in Nairobi, the capital remained largely tense, as many residents waited anxiously to see how the demonstrations would unfold. In Kamukunji, a political hotspot, allies of ODM leader Raila Odinga began addressing a gathering of supporters ahead of Raila’s expected arrival. The leader had called on youth to meet him at the venue on Sunday.
In Mombasa, despite the massive presence of police officers stationed in various parts of the city, the situation remained largely calm. There were no major confrontations reported, and the coastal city maintained order as authorities stayed on high alert.
This sweeping wave of protests across different counties has raised growing concerns among citizens, leaders, and security officials, as pressure mounts on the government to address the youth’s grievances while also ensuring public safety.
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