Commuters Stranded as Police Roadblocks Cause Massive Traffic Snarl-Up on Thika Superhighway
Authorities have maintained that the measures are intended to preserve public order and prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the demonstrations.
Motorists and passengers are stranded along the Thika Superhighway after anti-riot police erected roadblocks at key entry points into Nairobi ahead of the June 25 demonstrations. PHOTO | COURTESY.
By Robert Mutasi
Thousands of motorists and passengers travelling along the busy Thika Superhighway faced major disruptions on Thursday morning after anti-riot police mounted roadblocks at several points leading into Nairobi ahead of planned demonstrations marking the anniversary of the June 25, 2024 Gen Z protests.
Traffic ground to a near standstill on sections of the highway as security officers intensified checks and restricted access to the capital, resulting in long queues of vehicles stretching for kilometres.
The operation formed part of heightened security measures implemented across Nairobi in anticipation of demonstrations scheduled to commemorate the deadly anti-government protests that shook the country two years ago.
Several motorists reported being turned back at roadblocks, while others remained stranded for hours as police limited movement at key entry points into the city.
Videos circulating on social media showed severe congestion along the highway, with hundreds of commuters forced to disembark from public service vehicles and continue their journeys on foot.
Footage from the scene captured large groups of passengers gathered along roadsides as matatus struggled to navigate through the restrictions. Many commuters were seen walking towards Nairobi’s central business district after public transport services were disrupted.
Long lines of vehicles, including private cars, public service vehicles, lorries and fuel tankers, occupied multiple lanes of the superhighway, highlighting the scale of the disruption.
Some travellers expressed frustration over the delays, saying the restrictions had affected their ability to report to work and attend scheduled appointments.
The heavy police presence comes amid increased security operations across Nairobi ahead of demonstrations organised to mark the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024 protests, which were largely driven by young Kenyans opposed to the Finance Bill.
Authorities have maintained that the measures are intended to preserve public order and prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the demonstrations.
On Wednesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said police officers would provide security for peaceful protesters while taking action against individuals involved in acts of violence, vandalism or looting.
Government installations, including Parliament Buildings, were also placed under tight security, with barriers erected around sensitive areas of the city.
As the day progressed, uncertainty remained over how long the restrictions would remain in place, with many Nairobi-bound commuters continuing to face delays and transport challenges.
The June 25 demonstrations are expected to attract participants seeking to honour victims of the 2024 protests and call for greater accountability, justice and compensation for families affected by the unrest.
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