Kamukunji rally: Nairobi calm, State House Rd blocked as security heightened

Business as usual at GPO stage on Kenyatta avenue in Nairobi. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

Heavy police presence has been reported in various parts of Nairobi especially in the Central Business District (CBD) ahead of the planned Azimio la Umoja Kamukunji rally.

A spotcheck by The Standard has confirmed that few businesses have opened shop within the CBD, despite authorities' assurance of heightened security.

Matatu operators on Latema road waiting for customers during Saba Saba day in Nairobi. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

Nairobi Police Boss Adamson Bungei has told The Standard that they will not allow any protests in the CBD and assured business people of ample security.
However, it is business as usual in various parts of Nairobi including the Industrial area and along Mombasa Road.

Nairobi Central Business Dostrict calm as hawkers are seen selling clothes along Tom Mboya street on saba saba day. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

"They can proceed and hold their rally at the Kamukunji grounds since they followed the right channel in notifying the authorities. However, no one will be allowed to cause chaos in the CBD," Bungei stated.

His remarks come amid rains and several police roadblocks mounted at various strategic areas including State House Road.

Officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) have pitched camp in the CBD, and other locations within Nairobi.

Notably, on Friday morning, the usual traffic gridlock was not reported save for Thika Road.