Chaos erupted in Nairobi on Saturday as hundreds of Gen-Z demonstrators stormed the city center, overpowering heavily deployed police officers stationed along key entry routes.
The protests were sparked by early morning roadblocks set up by police to prevent public service vehicles (PSVs) from ferrying youths into the Central Business District.
The demonstrators, most of them young residents from the city’s outskirts, defied the restrictions and began marching toward town on foot.
They chanted slogans and waved placards demanding their right to assemble and express their frustrations over economic hardship, corruption, and lack of opportunities.
Police had strategically blocked roads such as Thika Road, Mombasa Road, and Waiyaki Way, but the youth managed to maneuver around the barriers, using side streets and footpaths to access the city.
“We are not here to cause chaos. We just want our voices heard. They cannot silence us with roadblocks and teargas.” said one protester.
Despite the police presence—with officers in riot gear and anti-riot trucks patrolling entry points—the youth pushed forward, overwhelming security efforts with sheer numbers and coordination.
Several groups had converged in downtown Nairobi, forcing law enforcement to retreat in some areas. Sporadic clashes were reported near Kencom and Haile Selassie Avenue, but no major injuries were confirmed.
Human rights observers on the ground criticized the government’s approach, stating that excessive police deployment only fueled more tension.
“These are unarmed young people expressing legitimate concerns. Blocking them only escalates matters,” said one observer.
While the situation calmed later, questions arose over the police’s preparedness and strategy.
Many are now calling for a peaceful dialogue between authorities and the youth, warning that silencing a restless generation may only deepen public resentment.
By Kenyans