Nairobi residents experienced severe transport disruptions on Monday morning, July 7, after police set up multiple roadblocks on major roads heading into the city center. The move brought traffic in and out of the Central Business District (CBD) to a near standstill, affecting thousands of commuters and causing long delays and rising frustrations.
The police roadblocks were erected despite a court ruling that had clearly prohibited such actions, especially ahead of the planned Saba Saba Day protests. This has sparked concern among rights activists and members of the public, who view the move as a violation of legal orders and an attempt to suppress demonstrations.
Several roads were particularly affected by the early morning lockdown. On Thika Road, blockades were reported at Roysambu, Kasarani, and Guri Nanak. On Mombasa Road, traffic was halted at the GM and Bunyala Roundabouts. The Eastern Bypass was also blocked near the 75 Roundabout.
Commuters using Waiyaki Way were caught in similar traffic jams at Kangemi and Museum Hill. Meanwhile, Kangundo Road was blocked at Njiru, near Mama Lucy Hospital, and at Donholm.
More road closures were reported on Jogoo Road near City Stadium and along Juja Road. Other routes affected included Kiambu Road, Landhies Road, Uhuru Highway, Kenyatta Avenue, Arwings Kodhek Road, and Valley Road.
These closures brought major traffic flow in Nairobi to a standstill. Thousands of people were left stranded and unable to reach their workplaces or appointments, creating confusion and disrupting business across the city.
The heavy police presence and roadblocks come amid rising tension, as thousands of young people—mostly Gen Z—had vowed to take to the streets on Saba Saba Day.
The day is marked to honor the fight for multiparty democracy in Kenya and to protest against issues like police brutality, government corruption, and youth marginalization.
Despite the growing tension, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku on Monday issued a firm directive requiring all government workers to report to duty without exception. He warned that civil servants who failed to show up for work would face disciplinary action.
At the same time, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen assured the public that the government had taken measures to ensure safety and security during the day. He urged businesses to remain open and promised that law and order would be maintained.
Still, public service vehicles (PSVs) struggled to operate. Most were either forced to change their routes or cancel trips altogether when they encountered roadblocks. In contrast, private vehicles were allowed to pass through, but only after thorough checks by the police.
Along Juja Road, eyewitnesses from Kenyans.co.ke reported the presence of Kenya Air Force officers from the Moi Air Base in Eastleigh assisting police in manning the barricades, underscoring the seriousness with which security agencies were treating the day’s events.
In the days leading up to the protest, more signs of government resistance emerged. Dozens of young people from Mombasa who had intended to travel to Nairobi for the demonstrations were reportedly blocked from attending the Summer Tide Festival, where many were organizing.
Additionally, Kenya Railways announced that all scheduled passenger trains had been canceled due to “technical hitches.” However, this announcement triggered backlash on social media, with many Kenyans accusing the government of intentionally trying to disrupt travel and prevent protesters from gathering in the city.
As tensions continue to build, many eyes remain on the Gen Z-led protest movement and the government’s response.
While officials maintain that their actions are meant to uphold peace and safety, critics argue that the measures taken—such as roadblocks and travel restrictions—are part of a broader strategy to silence dissent and discourage civic engagement.
Ruto sneaks out of State House to unknown destination ahead of tomorrow's Sabasaba maandano. pic.twitter.com/3XP8Vpcz1g
— Coletta Aluda (@Colettaaluda_1) July 6, 2025
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