CBD vehicle ban sparks outcry from Motorists Association of Kenya
The security clampdown comes as Kenyans commemorate the Gen Z protests of July 25, 2024, which were marked by the unprecedented storming of Parliament.
The Motorists Association of Kenya has condemned the government’s decision to block vehicles from entering Nairobi’s Central Business District and surrounding areas, terming the move unconstitutional and disruptive to the daily lives of ordinary Kenyans.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the association expressed shock over what it described as an abrupt and blanket prohibition of motor vehicles into Nairobi CBD, Upper Hill, and Hurlingham.
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According to the association, the move has thrown the city into paralysis, causing massive disruption to transport, business, and access to essential services.
“This has caused a scale of disruption never witnessed before. Freedom of movement is not a favour – it is a constitutional right, enshrined in Article 39 of the Constitution of Kenya,” the association said.
The association said that various types of vehicles, including matatus, taxis, lorries, private cars, motorcycles, and even long-distance buses, were being blocked from accessing critical city points without prior notice.
They said the clampdown has hurt Kenyans trying to get to hospitals, airports, courts, workplaces, markets, and other essential destinations.
“Vehicles are not a luxury for the average Kenyan. They are vital for emergencies, business, and basic movement,” the statement read further.
The group further warned that the impact of the blockade is not limited to local inconvenience, but has broader national and regional consequences, given Nairobi’s central role as the capital and a hub for East Africa.
“Nairobi is the beating heart of the nation. Shutting it down is irresponsible, unconstitutional, and economically reckless.”
They called for the immediate reopening of all blocked access routes and urged authorities to adopt lawful and reasonable traffic management strategies instead of blanket restrictions.
“Kenyans have a right to move freely, work, seek services, and travel without harassment or obstruction. End the blockade. Restore our rights. Open Nairobi. Now,” the association said further.
In the morning, police had sealed off major roads leading into the Central Business District.
Access to Parliament Road, Harambee Avenue, and Kenyatta Avenue was completely blocked, with police deploying wire-mesh fences and barricades.
Motorists from Nyayo Stadium Roundabout were also barred from entering the CBD through Uhuru Highway.
However, Ladhies Road remained accessible, as officers redirected traffic and controlled entry into the city centre.
A heavy police presence was also seen around State House, where all surrounding roads were sealed off.
The security clampdown comes as Kenyans commemorate the Gen Z protests of July 25, 2024, which were marked by the unprecedented storming of Parliament.
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