The government has deployed large numbers of security officers across the country to safeguard sensitive government installations and major businesses ahead of today’s Saba Saba demonstrations.
Following previous demonstrations where peaceful protests turned chaotic leading to looting and vandalism of property across the country, the government has tightened at restricted government areas, including the Supreme Court, Parliament Buildings, State House, and various regional administrative offices.
Scenes from a number of these premises depict officers on high alert stationed and entry points of many administrative offices across the country, with access strictly limited to authorised personnel.
In addition to government institutions, police have been stationed at key business locations that could be potential targets during the protests. These include Bata Shoe Company’s shop in Limuru, supermarkets within Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), and major roads leading to vital commercial hubs across the city and other urban centres.
Despite the security guarantees from the government, many businesses remain closed with most traders having moved out their valuable stocks ahead of the protests. Some even incurring extra costs to burglar proof the doors to avoid a repeat of looting incident witnessed during previous protests.
The police service has reaffirmed its mandate of protecting protecting life and property, and to maintain law and order during the protests.
Although the police have barricaded most of the roads leading to Nairobi CBD, a significant number of people has been witnessed in the City centre though the situation remains calm at the time of writing.
The deployment comes amid heightened tensions following calls for nationwide protests. Past demonstrations have been marred by violence, destruction of property, looting, and fatal clashes between protestors and security forces.
The situation remains fluid, with security agencies on high alert as they monitor the unfolding events across the country.
