As Kenya braces for the much-anticipated Saba Saba protests in 2025, the National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning to protesters, emphasizing that any illegal conduct during the demonstrations will be met with full force of the law. The statement, released Sunday night by police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, underscores rising tensions nationwide and highlights the government’s zero-tolerance approach to lawlessness.
With memories still fresh of past protests turning violent, the police statement warned that any protesters found carrying weapons or attempting to breach protected government installations—such as the Parliament or State House—would face immediate legal action. The NPS reiterated that it will not hesitate to arrest anyone involved in acts of vandalism, looting, or provocation of police officers.
National Police Service Issues Clear Directive Ahead of Saba Saba Protests in Kenya 2025
In its official statement, the National Police Service said it has gathered intelligence suggesting that certain protestors may attempt to disrupt critical government infrastructure. The warning comes amid increased calls for civil disobedience and street action, particularly in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa—hotspots for political demonstrations in Kenya.
“Entering or attempting to access Protected Government installations or restricted areas is a violation of The Protected Areas Act, Cap 204 Laws of Kenya and shall attract immediate legal action,” read part of the statement.
Nyaga also warned that protesters engaged in acts of looting or vandalism would be treated as criminals, not peaceful demonstrators. This follows recent incidents where protests in major towns like Nairobi and Nakuru escalated into chaos, leading to loss of property and injuries.
Nairobi Roadblocks Cause Massive Monday Morning Disruptions
On the morning of Monday, July 7, 2025, thousands of Nairobi commuters were met with an unusual situation: major roads were blocked by police despite a court order prohibiting such roadblocks ahead of the protests.
Key roads affected included:
- Thika Road at Roysambu, Kasarani, and Guri Nanak
- Mombasa Road at GM and Bunyala Roundabouts
- Eastern Bypass at the 75 Roundabout
- Other entry points into Nairobi CBD
The roadblocks led to widespread delays and public frustration, with many commuters stuck in traffic for hours. Social media was awash with images and videos of the gridlocked city, with many questioning the police’s defiance of the court order.
Court Order Ignored as Police Erect Roadblocks Ahead of Saba Saba Day Protests
Despite a High Court ruling that barred the NPS from disrupting peaceful assembly through roadblocks, the police appeared to proceed with operations aimed at controlling movement into and within the city. Human rights groups have condemned the move, calling it a violation of constitutional rights.
Kenya’s Constitution 2010, particularly Article 37, guarantees the right to peaceful assembly. Legal experts argue that the erection of police barriers without legal backing is unconstitutional and sets a dangerous precedent.
NPS Urges Officers to Act Professionally Amid Accusations of Brutality
The statement by the police also included a directive to officers on the ground, urging them to conduct themselves with professionalism and avoid actions that may further tarnish the image of the police service.
This comes after numerous complaints of police brutality during previous demonstrations, with watchdog groups like the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) documenting multiple instances of excessive force.
“We urge our officers to act professionally, uphold the Constitution, and ensure they protect both lives and property,” the statement read.
Saba Saba Protests 2025: What Is at Stake?
The term “Saba Saba” (Swahili for “Seven Seven”, referring to July 7) has deep historical roots in Kenya’s pro-democracy movement. In 1990, Kenyans took to the streets demanding political reforms under the Moi regime. The day has since become symbolic of resistance and civic activism.
In 2025, Saba Saba is once again being marked with calls for protest over issues such as:
- High cost of living
- Alleged corruption in government
- Suppression of freedoms
- Police brutality and unaccountability
Activists and civil society organizations have called on citizens to turn up in large numbers for peaceful demonstrations, even as the government continues to warn against potential disorder.
Human Rights Groups Raise Alarm Over Excessive Force
Human rights defenders in Kenya have raised the alarm over what they describe as increased militarization of civilian spaces and the criminalization of protest. According to the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), the presence of heavily armed officers and armored vehicles in Nairobi and other cities is meant to intimidate rather than maintain peace.
In a joint statement, several advocacy groups said:
“We urge the National Police Service to respect court orders and uphold the rights of protesters to express themselves peacefully. Use of excessive force is unacceptable.”
Citizens Caught in the Middle
While the back-and-forth between protesters and the police continues, it is ordinary Kenyans who bear the brunt. With roads blocked, public transport disrupted, and businesses closed, economic losses are already mounting.
A matatu driver along Thika Road told our reporters:
“We were not even told about these roadblocks. Passengers are stranded, and we are losing money. The government should think about wananchi.”
Small business owners in the CBD also reported reduced foot traffic and fears of looting.
What’s Next for the Saba Saba Protests in Kenya?
With protests expected to continue throughout the week, tensions remain high. Both the government and civil society are urging calm, but the gap between official rhetoric and on-the-ground actions remains wide.
Analysts warn that unless both sides embrace dialogue and transparency, the standoff could escalate into prolonged unrest—hurting Kenya’s economic recovery and political stability.
Conclusion
The events surrounding the Saba Saba Day protests in Kenya 2025 have once again highlighted the fragile balance between citizen rights and state control. The National Police Service’s warning to protesters, coupled with early morning roadblocks in Nairobi, reflects a government determined to avoid chaos—but potentially at the cost of civil liberties.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on how both the public and security agencies will navigate the next few days. The hope remains that dialogue, not confrontation, will ultimately prevail.