Several Arrested as Nairobi CBD Protests Mark June 25 Anniversary
Several protesters were arrested in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Thursday as crowds gathered to mark the June 25 anniversary demonstrations, a day that has become associated with remembrance, accountability and youth-led civic action in Kenya.
From the early morning hours, major roads leading into the city centre experienced disruptions as security officers set up roadblocks and restricted access to parts of the CBD and areas near Parliament.
Some businesses remained closed in sections of the city, while groups of demonstrators attempted to access the CBD carrying placards, flags and messages honouring those who lost their lives during the 2024 protests.
Live footage and eyewitness reports showed police officers moving in to disperse some groups, with arrests carried out at different points throughout the day.
Local media reports indicated that several protesters had been arrested in Nairobi CBD by Thursday afternoon, although authorities had not provided an official consolidated figure at the time of publication.
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A Day of Remembrance
This year’s demonstrations were organised as memorial gatherings to honour those who died during the June 2024 protests against the Finance Bill.
Participants said the events were not meant to celebrate political victories but rather to remember victims and renew calls for justice.
“No one deserves to lose their life for expressing themselves,” read messages shared on placards and across social media platforms.
Families, activists and young Kenyans used the occasion to reflect on events that significantly shaped the country’s political conversation.
The original demonstrations in 2024 attracted thousands of mainly young protesters who opposed proposed tax measures. The protests escalated, leading to dramatic scenes around Parliament before the Finance Bill was eventually withdrawn.
Increased Security Presence
Security remained heightened across Nairobi as authorities monitored movement around key areas.
Police maintained that citizens have the right to peaceful assembly but warned against violence, destruction of property and disruption of public order.
Roadblocks, security checks and restricted movement around government installations shaped much of the day’s activities.
For many participants, the anniversary represented both a moment of mourning and a renewed call for accountability.
“This is remembrance, but also a call for accountability,” was a message repeated by some demonstrators.
