Nairobi’s Central Business District was plunged into chaos on Wednesday after police fired teargas at demonstrators marking the second anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests, scattering crowds and triggering running battles across key streets.
Highlights:
- Police use teargas to disperse protesters across Nairobi CBD
- Clashes reported near City Market, UoN, and University Way
- Protesters commemorating 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations
- Heavy security deployed near Parliament and government buildings
- Arrests reported as businesses shut down in CBD
Main Story:
CBD Turned Into a Battleground
Sections of Nairobi’s city centre descended into chaos as groups of protesters took to the streets to mark the anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests. What began as memorial marches quickly escalated into confrontations with police across multiple hotspots.
At City Market, officers fired teargas canisters to block crowds attempting to advance toward key government installations, forcing demonstrators to scatter toward Globe Roundabout.
Teargas and Running Skirmishes
Thick clouds of smoke filled the air as protesters ran for safety, covering their faces while retreating from advancing police units. Similar scenes played out near the University of Nairobi and along University Way, where students joined the demonstrations.
Security forces were also heavily deployed around Parliament and surrounding roads, maintaining barricades to prevent access to sensitive areas.
Memorial Turned Protest Movement
The demonstrations were intended as peaceful commemorations for those who died during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, which rights groups say left over 120 people dead.
Many participants called for justice, accountability for alleged police brutality, and an end to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Police Defend Action
Authorities defended the response, stating that the protests had not been formally notified and therefore posed a security risk. Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud maintained that measures taken were necessary to restore order.
Despite this, several arrests were reported as confrontations continued across the CBD.
City Life Disrupted
By midday, much of the Central Business District had ground to a halt, with businesses shutting their doors and transport disrupted. The heavy police presence and ongoing skirmishes created an atmosphere of tension throughout the city.
Videos circulating online showed some political figures and leaders navigating through tear gas-filled streets as the situation unfolded.
A Growing National Conversation
The events once again highlight the deepening tensions between young protesters calling for reform and security agencies tasked with maintaining order during politically sensitive moments.
