The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has called for the immediate removal of police roadblocks mounted at major entry points into Nairobi, citing violations of constitutional rights by security agencies and disruption of transport services, which left thousands of travellers stranded on Thursday morning.
The demand came as several parts of Nairobi remained barricaded despite earlier government assurances that Thursday would proceed as a normal business and school day.
In a statement, the association condemned what it described as unlawful restrictions on movement in areas including Kangemi, Githurai, Mlolongo, and Athi River, arguing that the measures contradicted official communication issued ahead of the planned demonstrations.
MAK said the roadblocks amounted to a violation of Article 39 of the Constitution, which guarantees every Kenyan the right to freedom of movement and residence.
“The police have no legal basis to turn back law-abiding Kenyans who are exercising their fundamental rights,” the association said.
According to the lobby group, thousands of passengers travelling from upcountry and neighbouring towns were left stranded after police restricted access into the capital.
The association further noted that the restrictions disrupted movement along key transport corridors leading into Nairobi’s Central Business District, affecting workers, traders and other residents who rely on daily access to the city for their livelihoods.
MAK also accused security officers of using excessive force against unarmed Kenyans attempting to travel and participate in peaceful demonstrations.
“The response by security forces to unarmed citizens carrying nothing but water and phones with guns, water cannons, and tear gas is a display of illegal excessive force,” the statement read.
Among its demands, the association called for the immediate removal of all roadblocks at Nairobi’s entry points to restore the free movement of people and goods.
The motorists also appealed to Chief Justice Martha Koome to intervene and ensure accountability over what they described as blatant constitutional violations.
“The judiciary must hold the executive and the police accountable for these constitutional breaches,” the association said.
Additionally, MAK demanded an explanation from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen over why officers under his ministry allegedly acted contrary to assurances issued a day earlier.
The association vowed to continue advocating for the rights of road users, insisting it would not remain silent as the freedoms of Kenyans are curtailed.
On Wednesday, Interior CS Murkomen assured Kenyans that Thursday would remain a normal business and school day despite plans for demonstrations to mark the anniversary of the June 25 protests.
“Thursday will be a normal business and school day. Our children are free to go to school, and people are free to go about their businesses. The Constitution guarantees the right to education and lawful means of earning a living,” Murkomen said.
He added that members of the public, including protesters, were expected to make responsible choices regarding their safety and security.
Citing Article 37 of the Constitution, Murkomen said police were prepared to provide security and guide demonstrators in line with the notification submitted to authorities.
“We call upon all organisers and participants to conduct their demonstrations within the bounds of the law, ensuring they remain peaceful and unarmed,” he said, adding that although organisers had not specified the exact protest hours, they had provided the intended route.
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