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Kenyans woke up to barricaded roads and heavy police presence around their homes on the morning of the anticipated Saba Saba day.
Police officers had placed roadblocks on various spots in Nairobi and other areas. This move paralysed movement for many Kenyans through public transport leading to a stop to most normal businesses.
The busy roads remained clear as some people stayed indoors in the chilly weather while others began the protests by lighting fires on the roads.
However, they remained peaceful. Some of the places include Githurai 45, Kamiti road in Thika road amongst others.
Kenyans on social media expressed their opinions regarding the lockdown by police officers.
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A user on X stated, “Just by closing the roads, we win in the comfort of our warm beds.” Another agreed stating, “The aim of any protest is to stop normal activities and bring awareness to pressing issues. By shutting roads, they have ironically ensured that the protest is felt by all. Mjue hakuna holidays mpaka October. We need to use his paranoia very well.”
Passengers travelling for long distances remained stranded due to the roads being shutdown and had to seek refuge as the Saba Saba day began. Speaking to KTN, they shared their disappointment and frustration over not reaching their destination.
“Tumekuwa stranded since 4am juu hatuwezii enda town. Chakula inaharibikia kwa boot ambayo ilikuwa nipeleke nyumbani Kakamega,” a woman shared.
Another expressed their anger over the involvement of goons during the protests despite the police officers barricading the roads. An X user stated that with the roads blocked and limiting young protestors from turning up for Saba Saba day, it would be easier to identify the goons
“At least if goons are allowed into the protest, we can know who let them enter CBD,” the tweet read.
In an interview DIG Gilbert Masengeli stated the contrary to what Kenyans encountered. He stated that the roadblocks didn’t hinder the movements. “Everybody is getting to CBD and going for duty as normal,” Masengeli said.
Despite it all, Kenyans still rallied in various areas and armed police officers dispersed them with teargas canisters.