Even as the street protests enter one month, Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) was unusually quiet on Thursday afternoon as traders took precautions ahead of planned anti-government demonstrations.
A close check by this publication reveals that most businesses remained closed, with only a few daring to open their doors, as recent events have made traders wary.
Over the past week, peaceful tax protests by young Kenyans (Gen Zs) were disrupted by criminals, leading to widespread looting of businesses. This has raised concerns among traders and residents alike.
Typically, most of the roads of the CBD were noticeably clear, with both uniformed and plainclothes police officers patrolling the major streets. However, there was a noticeable reduction in the number of security personnel deployed compared to recent protests.
KDF officers were notably missing from the streets, hours after CS Aden Duale assured the public that the military officers will only be called to assist police after the situation escalates.
Despite the rising tension, public service vehicles continued to operate, providing some semblance of normalcy in the city. City Hall Road was closed to motorists for the first time, with pedestrians subjected to thorough screening before being allowed access. In a positive sign, Parliament Road, which had been closed during the height of the protests, was reopened to motorists, indicating a potential return to normalcy.
Most parts of the country that had largely experienced chaos in the past weeks including Kisumu, Kisii, Nakuru, and Migori were all notably quiet as well. Security docket has warned that all goons who have taken advantage of the protests to loot and destroy properties will be dealt with in accordance with the law.