Nairobi woke up to major transport disruptions on Thursday June 25, 2026 as police mounted roadblocks on key routes leading into the Central Business District ahead of planned protests marking the first anniversary of the June 25, 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

Several major roads leading to the city centre were closed, causing heavy traffic snarl-ups and forcing many commuters to walk long distances after public service vehicles were barred from accessing the CBD.

At Koja Stage, dozens of commuters were left stranded as matatus remained out of the city. The usually busy stage appeared largely deserted, with passengers waiting for transport while security officers maintained a heavy presence across the city centre.

Along Kamiti Road in Kasarani, PSV operators parked their vehicles at petrol stations and other holding areas after authorities restricted access to the CBD.

Parliament Road was also sealed off as police heightened security in anticipation of the demonstrations. Security personnel were deployed in large numbers around key government installations, including Parliament and other public buildings within the city centre.

The situation unfolded despite assurances from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen on Wednesday that Thursday would remain a normal working day and that Kenyans would be free to go about their daily activities and businesses. The CS also said police would provide security for peaceful protesters and members of the public.

The planned demonstrations are being held to commemorate Kenyans who lost their lives during the anti-Finance Bill protests of June 25, 2024. The protests, largely driven by Gen-Zs, sparked nationwide demonstrations against proposed tax measures and became one of the most significant moments in Kenya’s recent political history.

By early morning, movement into the city centre remained limited, with many Nairobi residents forced to adjust their travel plans as security operations continued across several parts of the capital.