Tight Security in Nairobi as Anti-Government Protests Mark 'Saba Saba' Day

Security forces in Nairobi have sealed off key roads and deployed heavily ahead of Saba Saba protests targeting President Ruto’s government over economic grievances and corruption.

Security remained tight across Nairobi on Monday as police sealed off major roads leading to the city’s central business district in anticipation of large-scale anti-government demonstrations aligned with ‘Saba Saba’ Day, which commemorates the historic 1990 pro-democracy uprising.

By early morning, traffic in parts of the capital had ground to a halt as long queues of vehicles formed at police checkpoints. Officers were seen deploying metal spikes and roadblocks to restrict access to key government installations, including routes leading to State House and Parliament. Reports from local media indicated a heavy police presence at major roundabouts, public transport hubs, and entry points to the city centre, with officers inspecting vehicles and turning back those suspected of ferrying demonstrators.

The protests, organised by civil society groups and opposition movements, are aimed at President William Ruto’s administration, which is facing mounting criticism over corruption allegations, economic mismanagement, and failure to fulfil key campaign promises to the working class. Demonstrators are demanding greater transparency, reduced taxation, and action to address the soaring cost of living.

“This government has betrayed ordinary Kenyans,” said one protest organiser, who requested anonymity for security reasons. “We are returning to the streets not just to honour the legacy of the 1990 movement, but to demand accountability today.”

Last year, similar demonstrations sparked by a controversial finance bill led to violent clashes and ultimately forced the government to withdraw the legislation. Rights groups have since warned of a shrinking democratic space, citing increasing police crackdowns on peaceful protestors.

In a statement issued Sunday evening, the Interior Ministry urged demonstrators to remain peaceful and warned of legal consequences for those who incite violence or destruction of property. “Security agencies have been deployed to ensure law and order is maintained. Any attempts to disrupt public peace will be met with firm action,” the ministry said.

Despite the warnings, protest organisers vowed to proceed, framing the demonstrations as a continuation of Kenya’s long-standing struggle for democratic rights.

‘Saba Saba’, meaning ‘Seven Seven’ in Kiswahili, is observed on 7 July to mark the day in 1990 when Kenyans rallied against the one-party rule of the Moi regime, ultimately paving the way for multi-party democracy. Today’s march, while rooted in that legacy, reflects a new generation’s frustration with entrenched inequality and government inaction.

As of mid-morning, no major incidents of violence had been reported, though the situation remained fluid, with scattered protests observed in several Nairobi neighbourhoods.