Groups of youth on Tuesday July 2, 2024 gathered in downtown Nairobi despite a heavy police presence, as the city braces for anti-government protests.

Several protesters congregated near the Ambassador building, chanting anti-Ruto slogans, prompting police to respond with tear gas.

Reports indicate police have used teargas to disperse gatherings that were forming around the Kenya National Archives.

Additionally roads in the city are guarded by police with major roads such as Parliament Road closed off to the public.

The Central Business District (CBD) has seen a significant reduction in activity, with many shops closed.

Streets like Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya, Lithuli Avenue, and Kenneth Matiba Avenue which are normally buzzing with business closed off.

Meanwhile, business owners are taking cover inside their premises as tension builds in the CBD.

The planned protests come in the wake of violent unrest that erupted last week, with protesters storming part of the parliament building and clashing with police.

The confrontations resulted in casualties, including at least five deaths, and prompted President William Ruto to condemn the events as “treasonous”.

The grassroots movement, which initially demanded lawmakers reject the proposed tax hikes, has evolved to include calls for major reforms in president Ruto’s government.