Boda boda riders stationed across Nairobi’s Central Business District played an unexpected but crucial role, shielding peaceful protesters from suspected government-backed goons who tried to disrupt the demonstrations.
The protests, sparked by the controversial death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody, had drawn hundreds into the city center.
But as tensions rose, so did fears of violence. Witnesses reported the arrival of unidentified men chanting “Ruto tano tena” and attempting to scatter demonstrators.
The so-called “nduthi gang” — a term usually linked to rowdy or unregulated motorbike operators — became guardians of the people.
“The nduthi gang in CBD really came through for protesters today. Big up,” activist Shakira Wafula said while holding a copy of The Standard newspaper with a bold headline reading “Killer squad boss?”
Protesters say the riders didn’t just offer moral support. They formed human barriers, moved people out of harm’s way, and even trailed some of the suspected disruptors to keep them from regrouping.
“We’ve been blamed for so much in this city, but today we stood up for truth,” said one rider near Jeevanjee Gardens. “We’re tired of the lies. Ojwang was one of us.”
Though police maintained a heavy presence around key roads, they did little to intervene as scuffles broke out. The government has not commented on allegations of sponsoring goons.
By Kenyans