Lilian Nyiva
Tensions flared outside Kenya's Parliament Buildings on Thursday after police moved to disperse a crowd that had gathered following a wreath-laying memorial ceremony held in honor of victims of previous anti-government protests.
Several protesters arrested
Witnesses reported that scuffles broke out shortly after opposition leaders, activists, families of victims, and protesters concluded the memorial event near Parliament. The ceremony involved the laying of wreaths at barricades erected around the parliamentary precincts as participants commemorated those who lost their lives during past demonstrations.
Police officers deployed around the area ordered sections of the crowd to disperse, leading to confrontations between security personnel and some protesters. Several individuals were arrested during the ensuing operation, although authorities had not immediately released the exact number of arrests or the charges involved.
The incident occurred amid heightened security measures across Nairobi, where police established roadblocks and restricted access to key parts of the city ahead of planned demonstrations marking the anniversary of the June 2024 anti-government protests.
Parliament Buildings and other government installations remained under heavy security throughout the day, with authorities citing the need to maintain public order and protect critical infrastructure.
The wreath-laying ceremony formed part of nationwide commemorations remembering victims of the 2024 protests, which culminated in the storming of Parliament and resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. Families of victims and human rights advocates have continued to demand accountability and justice for those affected by the unrest.
Authorities have repeatedly stated that peaceful demonstrations are permitted under the law but have warned against violence, destruction of property, or attempts to breach protected areas.
By Thursday afternoon, security officers remained deployed around Parliament and major roads within the capital as the situation continued to be monitored.
