Kenya Erupts As Police Open Fire On Protesters, Roads Blocked In Nairobi

Last Updated:July 07, 2025, 18:51 IST

Kenya police opened fire on antigovernment protesters in Nairobi. The protests were stage on the 35th anniversary of a pro-democracy uprising.

Anti-government protest in Nairobi, Kenya (REUTERS)

Kenya police opened fire and water cannon at the anti-government protesters in capital, Nairobi on the 35th anniversary of a pro-democracy uprising. As per the local media reports, at least one person was dead and several injured, due to the fire. Several schools and other public facilities were shut due to speculations of amplified conditions.

Administration prepared to tackle adverse situation, and from early morning, the security was beefed and forces blocked all major roads into central Nairobi ahead of the protests. Clashes broke out as demonstrators lit fires and attempted to breach police cordons. Police first used tear gas and water cannon. However, they opened fire on the demonstrators today.

Nairobi Protests

Nationwide rallies are being demonstrated to mark the 35th anniversary of a pro-democracy uprising have turned into an expanded call for President William Ruto to resign. The protest – called “Saba Saba" meaning “seven seven" in Kiswahili because of the date i.e., July 7. People rally each year on this date to mark the protests staged in 1990 when Kenyans demanded a return to multiparty democracy after years of autocratic rule by then-President Daniel arap Moi.

This year’s protests have turned into a wider call for President William Ruto to resign.

Amid the furore and nationwide protests, the Kenyan government has raised concerns about potential economic falling-out, cautioning that repeated demonstrations could hamper investments and push the country toward economic decline.

Police sealed all roads leading to Nairobi’s city centre, barricades were installed that disrupted local commute. As per the local reports, four police vehicles were used to completely seal off the Kangemi Bridge, preventing all traffic, including long-distance buses from entering the city.

Other key roads such as Valley Road (blocked at the DOD), State House Road (at Integrity Centre), Mombasa Road (at GM), and Thika Road (at Pangani) were also blocked.

Location :

Kenya

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News world Kenya Erupts As Police Open Fire On Protesters, Roads Blocked In Nairobi