The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli has dismissed reports that Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) is under lockdown, insisting that access to the city remains open.
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Masengeli, speaking on Monday, encouraged the public to abide by the law and hold peaceful protests.
“People are going about their business normally. No one is being prevented from entering the city,” he stated, urging demonstrators to maintain peace.
However, despite these assurances, Nairobi experienced significant traffic disruptions on Monday morning as police set up multiple roadblocks along major routes leading to and from the city.
The checkpoints, which affected both private cars and public service vehicles (PSVs), left many commuters stranded.
Security officers were stationed along key roads such as Waiyaki Way, Kenyatta Avenue, Jogoo Road, Mombasa Road, Thika Road, Kiambu Road, Uhuru Highway, Valley Road, and other critical access routes.
Only government vehicles and emergency services were allowed through the roadblocks. Additionally, some major businesses within the CBD were fortified with metal grills amid concerns of possible looting.
A police officer stationed at one of the checkpoints revealed they had been instructed to restrict vehicle entry into the city, although pedestrians were allowed to pass.
One hotel worker recounted having to walk from Westlands to the city centre due to the road restrictions.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku dismissed social media reports suggesting that Monday, July 7, would be declared a public holiday in honour of Saba Saba.
Ruku clarified that government employees were expected to report to work as usual.
“I want to remind all public servants across Kenya that tomorrow, Monday, is a regular working day. You are required to report to your workstations by 8 am and remain on duty until 5 pm,” Ruku said.
He made the remarks shortly before inviting President William Ruto to address attendees at the 35th Anniversary Thanksgiving of the ACK Diocese of Embu, held at Kigari Teachers Training College.
