There was minimal police presence in Nairobi’s central business district on Tuesday morning ahead of planned nationwide protests over fuel prices.
Unlike previous demonstrations where security officers mounted heavy deployments and barricades, only a few police officers were seen patrolling the CBD on foot, carrying batons.
Business activity continued as usual, with most shops open and operations running normally. Traffic flow remained smooth across major streets, while light morning showers were reported in parts of the city.
The subdued security presence comes as the country braces for demonstrations expected on Tuesday.
A coalition of Gen Z activists and opposition-linked groups announced plans for nationwide demonstrations scheduled for April 21.
The protests aim to push for further reductions in fuel prices and to address the broader cost of living.
Energy Regulatory Authority (Epra) announced significant increases in fuel prices for the April–May cycle, with petrol rising by Sh28.69 and diesel by Sh40.30. A day later, the regulator revised the prices downward following a reduction in VAT from 13 per cent to 8 per cent.
In Nairobi, super petrol dropped by Sh9.37 to Sh197.60 per litre, while diesel fell by Sh10.21 to Sh196.63.
Kerosene prices remained unchanged at Sh152.78.
The revised prices took effect on April 16 and will remain in place until May 14, 2026.
The adjustment followed an earlier spike that had pushed fuel prices in Nairobi to record highs, with super petrol reaching Sh206.97 and diesel Sh206.84 per litre.
The VAT cut is seen as part of government efforts to cushion consumers from global fuel price pressures.
Despite the intervention, concerns persist over the rising cost of living, with political actors calling for additional measures.
On April 17, police in Nairobi issued a stern warning against planned protests in the CBD, cautioning that any demonstrations deemed unlawful or disruptive will be dealt with firmly.
The organisers threatened a “total shutdown” of the CBD to pressure the government into addressing the issue.
Speaking on Friday, Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohammud said while the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble and demonstrate, the exercise of that right must remain within the confines of the law.
He warned that authorities will not tolerate actions that infringe on the rights of other citizens or disrupt economic activity.
“That’s not allowed. We will deal with you. Others will obstruct the road and will inconvenience other citizens. You have a right, and the other citizen has a right. While that right to assemble is protected, it’s not absolute,” he said.
Article 37 of the Constitution provides for the right of every person to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions to public authorities, as long as it is done peacefully and without arms.
The provision forms part of the Bill of Rights and is intended to safeguard collective expression.
However, Mohammud emphasised that the right must be exercised responsibly.
“It’s not absolute, let’s be clear on that. It must be exercised with due regard to the rights and freedoms of other Kenyans and the visitors,” he added.
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