Chants as crowds start gathering in CBD for protests

Crowds have gathered at the Nairobi central business district (CBD) ahead of the planned protests in remembrance of those killed in anti-Finance Bill protests in June 2024.

In videos seen by the Star, a section of Kenyans are seen gathered at the Tom Mboya monument, in the Archives along Moi Avenue, singing and chanting.

Among the chants are ‘Vijana msilale, bado mapambano’, which translates to, ‘Young people, don't sleep, there is still a struggle'.

It is a chant commonly used by protestors and trade unions when on industrial strike.

They are also heard chanting ‘wantam’, a word coined from ‘One term’.

Their gathering comes even as police have blocked vehicles from accessing the CBD.

Some residents have been forced to walk long distances to get to work.

In anticipation of the demonstrations, police have intensified operations and blocked major roads leading to Parliament to prevent protesters from accessing the legislature.

A spot check by The Star revealed a heavy deployment of anti-riot police in and around Parliament.

Officers have also been stationed along major entry routes into Nairobi, including Waiyaki Way, Mombasa Road, Thika Road, and Ngong Road.

Residents coming from Eastlands are being stopped at Donholm, while those from Thika Road are walking from Muthaiga.

On Tuesday, Police warned protesters to refrain from accessing protected areas during the planned Wednesday, June 25 protests.

Inspector General of police Douglas Kanja said that Kenyans have a right to picket but should do that in public areas.

IG Kanja said police will at all times prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons acting unlawfully.

“Any contrary conduct constitutes an unlawful and riotous assembly. The National Police Service shall at all times lawfully and firmly prevent any breach of peace by any group or groups of persons, acting contrary to the provisions of the law. Additionally, it is important to note that unauthorised persons must refrain from accessing protected areas under the Protected Areas Act (Cap 204, Laws of Kenya),” he said.

He urged Kenyans to refrain from provoking police officers while executing their duties.