Business paralysed in Nairobi as police clash with protesters over blogger’s death

Business operations across Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) came to a grinding halt on Tuesday as protesters took to the streets demanding justice for Albert Ojwang’, whose controversial death has sparked public outcry.

The demonstrations also marked the lead-up to the first anniversary of the Gen Z protests set for June 25.
The unrest was marked by a heavy police presence, including officers in plain clothes, along with the use of tear gas and confrontations involving unidentified men believed to be hired goons.

 The ripple effects were felt across the business and transport sectors, forcing many establishments to shut down prematurely.
Shops, supermarkets, banks, M-Pesa outlets and restaurants closed their doors amid fears of looting and escalating violence.

The banking sector was not spared, with several commercial banks suspending operations or scaling down services as tensions rose.
Branches such as Stanbic Bank on Kimathi Street and Co-operative Bank on Kenyatta Avenue remained closed for most of the day due to safety concerns for both staff and clients.
At Java House on Kimathi Street, both staff and patrons were caught up in the chaos as tear gas canisters were deployed nearby.

“I was just having my coffee when we heard shouting and people running outside. The staff immediately locked the doors, and we had to wait inside,” recounted one customer.
Naivas Supermarket on Moi Avenue was among several retail outlets forced to shut down early as the protests intensified.
Electronics traders near Jamia Mosque also pulled down their shutters fearing looting, destruction and being caught in clashes.

“This area is always busy, but today there were no customers. It’s too risky to operate since goons might break into our stalls and destroy our property,” said Eugene Kondo, a trader near Jamia Mosque.
By mid-morning, traders along Moi Avenue, Kimathi Street and those near Nairobi Archives had rolled down their shutters as running battles between police and protesters erupted.
Goons were spotted attempting to force entry into shops, prompting business owners to form human barriers to protect their premises. Others quickly secured their storefronts and fled.

The transport sector was equally disrupted.
Matatu operators along key CBD routes, especially Moi Avenue and Tom Mboya streets, suspended operations leaving hundreds of commuters stranded.
Some boda boda riders took advantage of the situation by hiking fare prices.
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