Kenya’s police leadership is facing a legal challenge after authorities shut down parts of central Nairobi during demonstrations marking the second anniversary of the country’s Gen Z protests, triggering renewed debate over civil liberties and police accountability.
A rights organisation, Katiba Institute, has filed a contempt of court case against Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, accusing the police service of ignoring a prior court ruling that was meant to protect freedom of movement during public demonstrations.
The case centres on claims that police erected unannounced roadblocks across key routes in Nairobi ahead of Thursday’s memorial marches, effectively sealing off the city’s central business district. Protesters had gathered to honour those killed during the 2024 anti-government demonstrations, which erupted over rising living costs, corruption allegations, and broader political grievances.
Those earlier protests escalated dramatically, culminating in incidents where demonstrators stormed Kenya’s Parliament building, marking one of the most serious episodes of unrest in recent years. The anniversary events were intended as peaceful commemorations, but tensions remained high.
The Kenyan government defended the deployment of roadblocks, arguing that intelligence reports indicated the possible infiltration of the protests by criminal groups planning to loot businesses and target civilians. Officials said the measures were necessary to prevent violence and protect public safety.
However, human rights organisations and legal activists strongly dispute that justification. They argue that the restrictions went far beyond reasonable security measures and instead amounted to an unlawful suppression of peaceful assembly. Critics say the roadblocks blocked ambulances, disrupted emergency services, and prevented many residents from accessing central Nairobi.
The legal action comes amid growing scrutiny of policing methods in Kenya, particularly during politically sensitive protests. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority has previously reported that at least 127 people were killed during waves of demonstrations in 2024 and 2025, with officers accused of using excessive force and operating with limited accountability.
The current case is expected to test how far court rulings can restrain security agencies during large-scale public gatherings, especially when authorities cite national security concerns. It also raises broader questions about the balance between maintaining order and protecting constitutional rights in Kenya.
As proceedings move forward, the outcome could set a significant precedent for how future protests are managed in the country, and whether police institutions can be held legally accountable for actions taken in the name of public safety.
