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[PHOTOS] Businesses shut, streets deserted as Saba Saba protests loom

The streets are largely deserted, with only a handful of residents seen going about their daily routines

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by NAOMI WAMAITHA

News07 July 2025 - 09:59
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In Summary


  • The heavy police presence has also contributed to the subdued activity.
  • Authorities have blocked several roads leading into central business districts nationwide to prevent potential criminal activities during the demonstrations.
People standing in front of closed shops in Eldoret ahead of Sabasaba protests on July 7, 2025/MATHEWS NDANYI




Many businesses across the country remain closed ahead of the Saba Saba protests scheduled for today.

In Eldoret, business owners have kept their premises shut, citing fears of a repeat of the destruction and looting witnessed during the June 25, 2025, protests.

The streets are largely deserted, with only a handful of residents seen going about their daily routines.

The heavy police presence has also contributed to the subdued activity.

Authorities have blocked several roads leading into central business districts nationwide to prevent potential criminal activities during the demonstrations.

Saba Saba, marked annually on July 7, is a significant date in Kenya’s history, symbolising the struggle for multiparty democracy.

This year, activists have mobilised online, calling for mass action. Groups like the National Alternative Alliance, a coalition of political parties and civil societies, are leading the push.

"We will protest on Monday to mark Saba Saba because Kenyans are fed up with Ruto’s leadership," said the alliance’s convenor, Arnold Maliba.

“Nothing is working."

A security guard standing in front of a closed shop in Eldoret, and residents walking ahead of Saba Saba protests/MATHEW NDANYI
Motorists and residents walking on a main road in Eldoret on July 7, 2025, ahead of Saba Saba protests/MATHEW NDANYI
Closed shops in Eldoret ahead of Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025/MATHEW NDANYI
A main road not so busy in Eldoret ahead of Saba Saba protests on July 7, 2025/MATHEWS NDANYI
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