In a tense standoff, police in Nairobi deployed tear gas to disperse protesting youths along Kimathi Street. The demonstrators had gathered outside the building housing the Nation Media Group, chanting anti-Ruto slogans. As anti-riot police closely monitored the situation, another contingent of officers arrived and lobbed tear gas, prompting the protesters to flee for safety. A video captured the moment as tear gas canisters were launched, and police vehicles turned toward the fleeing crowd.
The protests stem from the nationwide anti-Finance Bill 2024 movement, which entered its fifth day on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Initially peaceful, subsequent demonstrations have escalated into chaos, looting, and fatalities due to police using live bullets. During one incident, protesters overwhelmed police guarding the Parliament building, leading to vandalism and arson.
In Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), heavy police presence persists, with critical infrastructure such as Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Kenyatta International Convention Centre under tight security. Key roads leading to these institutions remain closed.
Youths in Nairobi also congregated at the National Archives, their chants echoing anti-Ruto sentiments. Despite the tension, President William Ruto has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with the protesters.