The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kenya Railways has resumed the Madaraka Express passenger train service between Mombasa and Nairobi following an abrupt suspension on Sunday night that triggered widespread public criticism and speculation.
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In a statement released early Monday, Kenya Railways blamed the disruption on a “technical hitch” and confirmed that the issue had been addressed.
“We have arranged transport for all affected passengers, including those who missed earlier trips. Travelers should report to Mombasa Terminus by 8:00 a.m. on July 7. Tickets purchased for July 6 remain valid,” the statement read.
Despite the explanation, the timing of the suspension drew backlash on social media, with many Kenyans suspecting the move was politically motivated to block young people — many of whom were returning from the Summerfest concert in Mombasa — from joining the Saba Saba protests in Nairobi.
Videos circulated online showing youthful passengers singing anti-government slogans like “Ruto Wantam” during their trip to the coast. The viral clips fueled claims that authorities had intentionally grounded the trains to limit movement ahead of the demonstrations.
Heightened Security Turns Nairobi Into a Ghost Town
Although government officials maintained that Monday, July 7, would be a normal working day, Nairobi’s streets told a different story.
Heavily armed anti-riot police sealed off major roads leading to the Central Business District (CBD) and State House from as early as 2:00 a.m., using barriers and razor wire at key points.
Roadblocks were set up at the following locations:
- Ngong Road at City Mortuary
- Valley Road at DOD headquarters
- State House Road near Integrity Centre and Arboretum
- Uhuru Highway at Haile Selassie Roundabout
- Mombasa Road at General Motors
- Thika Road near Roysambu Roundabout and GSU Headquarters
- Waiyaki Way at Kangemi Flyover
- Outer Ring Road towards Buruburu
Only government and emergency vehicles were permitted past the checkpoints, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Public transport was scarce, and most city businesses remained closed, with many owners reinforcing shopfronts with metal grills over the weekend due to fears of looting.
“I work at a restaurant in town, but there are no matatus. I had to walk all the way from Imara Daima,” said Faith, one of several pedestrians making their way to the city centre.
Saba Saba Anniversary Rekindles Calls for Democracy
The heavy security deployment comes in response to opposition leader Raila Odinga’s calls for Kenyans to converge at Kamukunji Grounds to mark Saba Saba Day — 35 years since the historic July 7, 1990 protests that pushed for multiparty democracy during President Daniel arap Moi’s regime.
“Saba Saba’s mission remains unfulfilled. Human rights abuses, police brutality, and economic suffering continue,” Odinga stated during a Sunday press briefing. He vowed to attend the Kamukunji rally “to honour those who lost their lives in the fight for democracy.”
The original Saba Saba demonstrations were met with a brutal crackdown but ultimately paved the way for constitutional reforms and the end of Kenya’s one-party system. This year’s anniversary arrives amid growing frustration with President William Ruto’s government, sparked by economic struggles, security force crackdowns, and controversial policies.
Civil Servants Warned Against Absenteeism
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku reminded government employees that Saba Saba is not a public holiday and warned of strict disciplinary action against absentees.
“All public officers are required to report to work as usual. I will personally conduct inspections, and any absenteeism will be punished,” Ruku cautioned.
Schools and Universities Suspend Classes
As a precaution, several schools across Nairobi and other major towns instructed students to stay home and resume learning on Tuesday. Higher education institutions also advised students to avoid unnecessary travel or gatherings.
