Youthful protesters turned out in large numbers in Kiserian on Monday to mark Saba Saba Day.
In videos seen by The Star, the protesters lit bonfires in the middle of the road.
As tension built, they engaged anti-riot police in running battles.
After some time, the officers, who were overpowered, retreated to their posts.
The protesters have occupied the roads for most of the day, with chants heard across the area. The Saba Saba protests, held annually on July 7, commemorate the historic push for multiparty democracy in Kenya.
This year’s demonstrations have gained new momentum from a youth-led digital movement demanding government accountability and economic reforms.
The youths had called for another demonstration following the June 25, 2025, protests, which commemorated lives lost during the June 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.
However, police decided to barricade various inlets to the Nairobi Central Business District, blocking access.
Entry points to the CBD have also been sealed off, with minimal activity reported in the city centre.
Several confrontations between police and protesters have been reported in Kangemi, areas along Thika Road, Kitengela, and other hotspots.
There is a heavy police presence in areas believed to be protest flashpoints.
Armored vehicles, water canons and razor wires are just some of the equipment deployed by police.
Officer with horses are also making patrols across the city centre.
