Nairobi locked down as Kenyan police clash with anti-government protesters, injuring 1

Police in Kenya clashed with demonstrators on Monday during anti-government protests as the authorities blocked major roads leading into the capital, Nairobi, and most businesses closed.

Protesters lit bonfires and hurled stones at police in roadblocks, and police fired and hurled tear gas canisters, injuring one demonstrator.

Kenyans had planned demonstrations on July 7 to protest police brutality, poor governance, and to demand President William Ruto’s resignation over alleged corruption and the high cost of living.

July 7, known as Saba Saba, is a significant date in Kenya’s recent history, marking the first major protests 35 years ago that called for a transition from a one-party state to a multiparty democracy, which was realised in the 1992 elections. Saba Saba is Swahili for “Seven Seven”, representing July 7.

Police officers were stopping private and public vehicles from accessing the city centre. They were also blocking most pedestrians from entering the capital, only allowing through those deemed to have essential duties.

“There is no reversing the Gen Z Saba Saba-like spirit,” said Macharia Munene, professor of history and international relations at United States International University Africa in Nairobi. “Attempt to criminalise protests is reactive and will not work. It instead makes the government appear retrogressive and desperate enough to subvert the constitution.”