Tide turns on Thika Road as protesters overpower police

Police engage protesters during June 25 Anniverssary protests following. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Thousands of Kenyans have taken to the streets today in nationwide protests, commemorating those killed during the Anti-Finance Bill demonstrations in 2024 and demanding accountability.

The protests, marked by significant clashes with police, are intensifying across major towns, with Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) becoming a focal point of the unrest.

Hundreds of protesters on Thika Road breached police barricades, forcing officers to retreat at Roysambu area. This large crowd is now marching toward the Nairobi CBD.

Earlier, police attempts to disperse demonstrators with tear gas near Githurai were thwarted by stone-throwing youths who successfully overpowered the officers.

The situation mirrors previous confrontations within the CBD, where protesters mapped out a route from the Kenyatta Avenue roundabout, through Moi Avenue, City Hall Way, and Harambee Avenue.

Police have responded by barricading key roads and deploying teargas, but protesters are pushing through in relentless waves, turning the confrontation into a cat-and-mouse game.

So far, five individuals have been reported injured in Nairobi, with ambulances and medical personnel on standby to assist.

Among those teargassed was former Chief Justice David Maraga, who was targeted along Kimathi Street while joining the commemorative protest. Supporters quickly shielded him from further harm.

Beyond the capital, protests are widespread.

Protesters at Kitengela, town Kajiado county protestors trying to barricade the Nairobi Namanga road. [Peterson Githaiga, Standard]

In Kitengela, youths have blocked roads and staged sit-ins, amplifying demands for improved governance, justice for those who died in past protests, an end to corruption, among other issues.

Nakuru County is also witnessing skirmishes, as police clash with demonstrators attempting to access the CBD. Shops in the area have closed with vandalism being reported.

Similarly, tension is building in Kisii and Nyeri as protester numbers continue to swell.

In contrast, Mombasa town witnessed a largely peaceful march from morning until noon, when police began deploying teargas. Despite the peaceful initial demonstration, the crowd's resolve remains evident.

In other towns, protesters have maintained their stance despite heavy deployment of police officers.