State House access roads in Nairobi are now under heavy police presence with newly erected barricades.
The heightened security measures have transformed the area, with General Service Unit (GSU) officers, police vans, and riot control trucks stationed at key points.
Residents and commuters in Nairobi woke up to the sight of these fortified security arrangements, a stark contrast to the previously open roads that allowed easy access around State House.
The increased security measures have led to traffic disruptions and restricted movement around the Nairobi metropolis.
A source at State House told Kenyans.co.ke said the roads affected include; State House Road, Dennis Pritt Road, and Processional Way.
The decision to enhance security and restrict access follows concerns over potential threats and the need to fortify security at the house on the hill after a section of youth vowed to mount continuous anti-government protests.
Heightened security measures are in response to intelligence reports indicating possible political unrest and demonstrations.
Recent threats from protest groups, particularly those opposed to the finance bill and the systems in President William Ruto’s government, have raised the alarm, prompting authorities to implement stringent security, patrol and surveillance measures.
Previously, there had been instances of the Kenyan youth threatening to march to the State House to express their discontent with government policies.
These threats have necessitated a robust security response to prevent any breach of peace or threat to the presidential residence.
Disgruntled Kenyans have run a week-long campaign on social media vowing to protest at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Tuesday, July 23, to amplify their voice against corruption, inefficiency and alleged privatisation of the government facility.
However, the government has asked Kenyans to remain calm and wait for procedural measures to take effect.
