Anti-government protests have entered their sixth week, transforming towns across the nation into ghost towns.
Nairobi
In the capital, the usual hustle and bustle has disappeared as many choose safety over confrontation amid the tense atmosphere from previous protests.
By 10:00 a.m., despite no protest action yet, a heavy police presence was observed in the Central Business District (CBD).
But by noon, the ghost town turned chaotic, with police lobbing teargas canisters at protesters. Large groups of boda boda riders were captured traversing through the CBD, with placards written: “Let’s give Ruto time.”
At 1:00 pm, Nairobi Police Boss Adamson Bungei was seen in the CBD with protesters chanting "We are peaceful", who sought an audience with him.
Nairobi Police Boss Adamson Bungei engages with protestors in Nairobi CBD along Moi Avenue as they chant "We are peaceful," seeking an audience with him.
Video by Okumu Modachi. pic.twitter.com/cSc4qq40yE — The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) July 23, 2024
Along Outering Road, officers were forced to use water cannons to disperse protesters who blocked the Taj Mall roundabout.
A few kilometers away in Kitengela, tensions remain high. Several youths were arrested after a failed attempt to barricade the Nairobi- Namanga Road.
Migori
In Migori, police used teargas to disperse youths who had blocked the Migori-Rongo highway. Businesses in the town remain closed, and transport is paralysed.
Nakuru Town
In Nakuru, the government has deployed officers near State Lodge and throughout the town's CBD.
Kisii Town
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Kisii town is similarly tense, with a heavy police presence reported.
Mombasa
In the Coast region, several people were injured after police used tear gas to disperse anti-government protestors along Moi Avenue in Mombasa.
This story is being updated…