June 25 Protests: Parliament Road Barricaded with Razor Wire Ahead of Demos
- Authorities have mounted razor wire barricades on Parliament Road in Nairobi as a precaution ahead of the June 25 memorial protest
- Youth protesters have pledged to remain peaceful while demanding justice for victims of police brutality and broader social reforms
- Inspector General Douglas Kanja cautioned demonstrators against provoking law enforcement, spreading propaganda, or attempting to access protected areas.
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Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.
Nairobi: The much-anticipated June 25 memorial protest, organised to honour youths killed during the 2024 anti-finance bill demonstrations, is yet to begin as Gen Z activists prepare to hit the streets.
Source: Facebook
The protestors have vowed to remain peaceful while demanding accountability, justice for victims of police brutality, and urgent reforms to address deep-rooted injustices.
In the lead-up to the demonstrations, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja issued a stern warning, cautioning protestors against provoking police officers, spreading propaganda, accessing protected areas, or destroying property.
Several political leaders echoed similar sentiments, warning against any acts of lawlessness while acknowledging the citizens’ constitutional right to demonstrate.
On the protest day, authorities heightened security by erecting razor wire barricades at the entrance to Parliament Road in Nairobi—a move interpreted as a preemptive measure to deter access to critical government buildings.
The visible security deployment has raised concerns among Kenyans who insist the march is a peaceful plea for justice, amid growing frustration over police violence, joblessness, and unfulfilled government promises that continue to fuel the youth-led movement.
How did Kenyans react to the move?
Kahigi Dorothy
"My goodness!! When I was in school, Parliament was open to the public to go sit and listen to what the legislation was debating. Sometimes members of the public were given the honour of chipping in as long as they followed the house rules. To see this same public space now cordoned off is so telling, like seriously, what are they afraid of?"
Calvin Ninga
"Even if it's electric, electrical engineers will be present among the visiting guests. These are not everyday demonstrators. They're educated and sharp."
Source: Facebook
Jos Mel
"They were supposed to accompany the peaceful demonstrators, not to block them. What is so hard to allow and listen to them? Peace, peace 🙏 no more bloodshed."
Wanyama Wakasiaka
"The fear is palpable. It's evidently clear that the people can cause real jitters in the fake bold hearts of the rulers!"
John Wafula
"The government spokesman said it's not a holiday, but the government itself is enforcing a public holiday."
Did police block roads leading to CBD?
Meanwhile, anti-riot police officers were deployed at key entry points before the start of the demonstrations.
Roads leading to the city centre, including the route from Yaya Centre, were sealed off at the DOD roundabout.
Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and boda boda operators have also been barred from accessing the CBD as authorities move to restrict movement and prevent disruption.
The heavy police presence signaled a coordinated effort by the government to maintain order amid growing public unrest.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
