Saba Saba protests: Nairobi on lockdown as Kenyans rally against Ruto

Saba Saba Protests: Nairobi Shuts Down as Kenyans Rise Against Ruto’s Leadership

Nairobi Under Lockdown as Protests Begin

The streets of Nairobi came to a near standstill on Monday morning as Kenyan authorities implemented a citywide lockdown in anticipation of large-scale protests marking Saba Saba Day—a symbolic date for political resistance in Kenya. Police cordoned off key roads leading in and out of the central business district (CBD), deploying metal spikes across major streets and bringing traffic to a halt. Motorists found themselves stranded in long queues, with some forced to abandon travel plans altogether. Local media reported that security personnel had been stationed at all major intersections, roundabouts, and especially near State House, the official residence of President William Ruto. The heavy security presence underscored the government’s deep concern about the scale and impact of the planned demonstrations.

Historic Day of Resistance

The protests, scheduled to align with Saba Saba—Swahili for “seven-seven” or July 7th—carry deep historical significance. On this same day in 1990, thousands of Kenyans took to the streets demanding free and fair elections. That movement led to major political reforms, including the legalization of opposition political parties. Today, the same spirit of resistance has reemerged as citizens rally against what they describe as a corrupt and oppressive administration. The coordinated demonstrations, expected to attract tens of thousands, reflect growing frustration with Ruto’s leadership, which has faced increasing scrutiny for alleged corruption, police brutality, and broken promises.

Preemptive Police Crackdown

Security operations began well ahead of the Monday protests, with police restricting movement and intercepting public transportation services. On Sunday evening, roadblocks were set up and buses were stopped en route to Nairobi, particularly those suspected of transporting protestors. Reports indicate that passengers were questioned, and in some cases, forced to return to their points of origin. The government’s firm stance was seen by many as an attempt to intimidate protestors and disrupt the democratic right to assemble. However, the measures did little to quell public anger. On social media, the hashtag #SabaSabaProtests trended nationally, with users sharing updates, protest locations, and calls for peaceful action.

Disillusionment with Ruto’s Government

Kenya’s fifth president, William Ruto, has faced a steep fall in popularity just two years into his term. His 2022 presidential campaign, which heavily focused on uplifting hustlers and working-class citizens, quickly came under criticism when he introduced aggressive tax reforms that hit ordinary Kenyans hard. These new fiscal policies were seen as a betrayal of his original promises, prompting widespread backlash. In July last year, protestors stormed parliament, leading to the government’s withdrawal of a deeply unpopular finance bill. Despite the public outcry, Ruto continues to defend the tax hikes, stating that they are essential to fund government operations and service debt. This rationale, however, has not been well-received by a population already burdened by high costs of living and limited job opportunities.

Growing Momentum for Change

The Saba Saba protests of 2025 may signal the beginning of a new wave of civic awakening in Kenya. Many see these demonstrations not just as a response to Ruto’s governance, but as part of a larger movement for accountability, transparency, and justice. Civil society groups, political opposition, student unions, and even some religious organizations have lent their support to the protests, citing a pattern of state overreach, police violence, and economic exclusion. While the government has insisted on maintaining law and order, critics argue that true peace cannot exist without meaningful engagement and reform. With tensions mounting, all eyes remain on how the administration will respond—and whether it will listen to the voice of the people or continue down a path of suppression.

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Ama Oprah

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