The National Police Service has beefed up security around State House, Nairobi ahead of Azimio la Umoja's planned vigil for the twenty-seven people who were killed during anti-government protests.
Unusual security was on Wednesday, July 26, mounted on State House Road with police officers manning the roadblock and checking vehicles for possible threats against the State.
The officers were seen stopping vehicles and scanning them before allowing them to proceed. Oftentimes, motorists are allowed to ply the route without encountering any security hindrances.
Even though the questions were largely inaudible, the officers were recorded asking some questions and the motorists had to respond before being allowed through.
Similarly, the police put up roadblocks on adjacent roads leading to the State House and increased patrols in the area, something that attracted the attention of Kenyans.
The security beef-up is a precautionary measure to prevent any further violence even as Azimio la Umoja mourn the death of their supporters.
It was observed that the security beef-up has caused some inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians. The security situation in the country remains tense, and it is possible that there could be more violence in the coming days should Azimio la Umoja call for another round of nationwide protests.
The government and the opposition are still at loggerheads, and there is no sign that the political divisions will be resolved anytime soon.
Cabinet Secretary for Interior Kithure Kindiki on Tuesday, July 25, noted that the government is concerned that the vigils could escalate into full-blown protests, as such, the police officers were ordered to stand guard as always.
The second round of protests staged between Wednesday, July 19, and Friday, July 21, were scheduled in response to the rising cost of living among other issues. The demonstrations led to serious destruction of property and death.
The protests turned violent, and at least 21 people were killed by the police.
In response, Azimio la Umoja is holding countrywide vigils to remember the victims of the protests and to call for justice.
At Mama Lucy Hospital in Nairobi, the vigil was attended by hundreds of people, including opposition leader Raila Odinga.
The government has denied responsibility for the deaths of the protesters, but the opposition has accused the police of using excessive force. The police have stated that they were only trying to disperse the protesters, who were throwing stones and burning tires.
