The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has demanded the immediate removal of police roadblocks mounted on major roads leading into Nairobi's central business district.
The commission argues the security measures contravene a court order and unlawfully restrict movement.
In a statement issued on Thursday morning as Kenyans marked the anniversary of the June 25, 2024, protests, the rights lobby said police had erected barriers along key public roads despite a High Court ruling that barred authorities from obstructing roads without providing timely advance notice to the public.
"Police, open the roads now! Authorities must dismantle the roadblocks and restore unimpeded passage for all," KHRC said.
According to the commission, the roadblocks have impeded freedom of movement and limited access to several constitutional rights, including healthcare, emergency services, economic activity, public services and peaceful assembly.
"The sweeping closures place an unlawful and disproportionate burden on millions of Kenyans," the commission said.
KHRC further argued that the restrictions had prevented some people from accessing the city and disrupted normal activities as memorial events linked to the June 25 protests got underway.
The statement comes amid widespread reports of roadblocks, vehicle checks and movement restrictions on several routes leading into Nairobi.
Traffic disruptions were reported along sections of Thika Road, Waiyaki Way, Ngong Road, Lang’ata Road and roads linking the capital to Kiambu, Ruiru, Githurai and Rongai.
In some areas, public service vehicles were reportedly turned back while motorists underwent additional security screening, leading to long queues and delays.
However, Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli dismissed claims that roads had been blocked, maintaining that security officers were only conducting checks to ensure public safety.
"There are no blocked roads. We are just ensuring the safety of Kenyans. We are just checking if they are carrying weapons," Masengeli said.
The police boss said citizens were continuing with their daily activities and insisted that security agencies were facilitating movement while carrying out their mandate.
"We are not blocking people, we are allowing them," he said.
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had earlier said security agencies were deployed along major roads and entry points into Nairobi to keep people safe, protect property and critical infrastructure and support the continuation of lawful activities with minimal disruption.
The government has maintained that demonstrations are a constitutional right and that security measures put in place are intended to facilitate peaceful assembly while safeguarding public order.
KHRC, however, insisted that the roadblocks should be removed and urged police to allow Kenyans to access the city and participate in memorial activities commemorating those who lost their lives during last year's protests.
