By Kamadi Amata
Nairobi residents faced massive disruptions and frustration on Monday morning as police mounted roadblocks on major highways and access routes into the Central Business District (CBD).
Police erected the roadblocks ahead of the anticipated Saba Saba Day commemorations.
Although the government insisted that July 7 would remain a normal working day, security agencies launched a citywide lockdown to thwart potential protests.
Authorities appeared to aim the move at preventing demonstrators from infiltrating the CBD while disguised.
Heavily armed officers manned key roads, including Waiyaki Way, Kenyatta Avenue, Jogoo Road, Mombasa Road, Thika Road, Kiambu Road, Uhuru Highway, Valley Road, and several feeder roads, and conducted thorough vehicle checks.
Police allowed only government vehicles and emergency cases through, severely limiting access to the city.
The lockdown brought Nairobi’s main transport arteries to a near standstill. Thousands of commuters found themselves stuck in early morning traffic. Some abandoned their vehicles to walk, while others turned back entirely.
The restrictions sparked widespread criticism from commuters and civil society groups, who condemned the move and accused the government of overreach.
“This is completely unacceptable,” said James Mwangi, a stranded commuter along Mombasa Road. “If the government wants to ensure security, they should not do it at the expense of ordinary Kenyans trying to get to work.”
Saba Saba Day, historically associated with calls for democratic reforms, has seen renewed relevance in recent years as activists push for greater accountability, social justice, and economic equity.
The heavy security presence signals the government’s heightened sensitivity to dissent amid rising public frustration over the high cost of living and political discontent.