Officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) have barricaded several roads in Nairobi as the Azimio la Umoja coalition’s protests intensify on Monday, March 20.
There was a heavy presence of officers on several roads both within and outside of Nairobi CBD, as well as GSU trucks positioned along the roads to prevent protestors from entering.
Only certain vehicles were allowed to pass through the roads leading to the State House, including the Processional Way.
Other roads, such as University Way, Dennis Pritt, and Arboretum Road, were also blocked off, with security officers stationed nearby.
Other roads that had been barricaded included Juja Road near the Moi Air Base, which had a heavy police presence.
Motorists on the road were forced to circumvent the barricade.
Security officers were also stationed at various points throughout the Central Business District (CBD), limiting movement on the most affected roads, which included Harambee Avenue, City Hall Road, and Parliament Road.
The police officers who were deployed in large numbers in the city also barricaded Moi Avenue in the CBD.
Motorist to use an alternative route
Motorists who normally use Nairobi’s roads were rerouted to alternate routes.
Earlier in the morning, police officers chased away young people who attempted to enter KICC through Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).
Shortly after, GSU officers arrested a number of the youth who had gathered outside the landmark building.
Other officers had thrown tear gas at protestors in Kibra who were planning to march to CBD.
Raila Odinga, leader of Azimio la Umoja, has announced that he will march to State House on Monday, March 20, to present his petition to President William Ruto regarding the high cost of living affecting Kenyan citizens.
On Sunday, March 19, Nairobi Police stated that no roads would be closed in advance of the protest.