Roads to Parliament closed ahead of anti-finance bill protests

In anticipation of large-scale protests against the finance bill, several key roads leading to Parliament buildings have been closed off by security officers.

Parliament Road and City Hall Way, among others, have been shut down to vehicular traffic and pedestrian access as security measures intensify.

Police water cannons and lorries have been used as barricades at key roundabouts leading to parliament.

Access to the area has been fully restricted and only open to authorized personnel upon proper identification.

The demonstrations, organized by various civil society groups have attracted massive support from youth across the country.

A contingent of anti-riot police officers from all units have also been deployed to guard the area.

With the fate of the finance bill hanging in the balance, all eyes are on Parliament as legislators prepare to debate it.

The bill includes amendments to taxation and public expenditure.

Organisers outlined Friday a series of events that will culminate in round two of Occupy Parliament demos today.

“Day 5, Tuesday, June, 25: #OccupyParliament. A national strike. Gen Z is granting all hard-working Kenyans a day off. Parents keep your children at home in solidarity,” they said.

On Wednesday, activist Boniface Mwangi said they will visit IPOA offices and the IG of Police to demand justice for Kanyeki.

He said this will be followed by another round of demonstrations on Thursday where they will march to State House to show their dissent on a day the President is expected to ascent to the Bill.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki issued Monday warnings and demands to Kenyans who are planning to protest today.

"They must make sure that the enjoyment of these rights does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others," he said.

Kindiki said that protesters must remain peaceful and unarmed during the protests.

CS Kindiki added that demonstrators must engage without promoting violence or riots.

"They must not interfere with road rail, sea or air transport in any manner whatsoever. Whatever the demands, the issues, grievances or whatever the matter, the rule of law and public order must be maintained by all persons," he said.