Tension gripped Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Tuesday after violent clashes broke out between demonstrators and suspected goons allegedly deployed to disrupt Gen Z-led protests demanding justice for the late teacher and social media influencer, Albert Ochieng’ Ojwang’.
At least one motorcycle was set ablaze, and its rider seriously injured, following confrontations near Moi Avenue. Eyewitnesses say a group of over 30 motorcyclists—some carrying up to four pillion passengers—stormed key roads in the city centre, including Kenyatta Avenue, Tom Mboya Street, and Luthuli Avenue.
The motorcycle riders appeared to be on a coordinated mission to intimidate protesters, sparking a wave of panic across the city.
Dressed in heavy clothing and wearing face masks, the group reportedly attacked demonstrators before being repelled by an angry crowd. One rider was cornered and beaten unconscious before police intervened.
The motive and identity of those behind the motorcyclist deployment remain unclear. However, protesters suspect the group was mobilised to sabotage ongoing protests, which have gained momentum in recent days following Ojwang’s controversial death in police custody on June 7.
Despite the provocation, Gen Z protesters remained defiant, staging demonstrations across the CBD and demanding accountability from top police officials.
Tear gas filled the air as anti-riot police moved in to disperse crowds at key protest hotspots, including the National Archives, Kencom, and Tom Mboya Street.
The protests have been accompanied by growing calls for the resignation of Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat.
Although Lagat temporarily stepped aside on Monday, June 16, protesters insist that a full and permanent resignation is necessary.
Business owners in downtown Nairobi remained on high alert, with many choosing to close early amid fears of looting, similar to incidents witnessed in last week’s demonstrations.
A heavy police presence continues to blanket the CBD, with anti-riot officers patrolling densely populated streets to prevent further escalation.
