It was business as usual in Nakuru city today as Kenyans witnessed anti-government protests in various parts of the country.

This, even as what was to be similar demonstrations came to a halt at initial mobilization stage, when police were forced to use teargas to disperse a group of demonstrators at Shikpark hotel along Kenyatta Avenue.

During the midmorning incident, two protestors among them Jimmy Wagakabu, an official at Movement United for Super Action (MUSA) were arrested and taken to Central Police station.

According to ODM supporter and former aspirant for Nakuru West Parliamentary seat Hezron Okiki, the demos were to be held along Nakuru’s Kenyatta avenue in solidarity with other Kenyans.

A spot check within the CBD two hours later revealed several police officers on patrol with businesses going on as usual, among them supermarkets, malls and banks.

Police officers patrol Nakuru city along Kenyatta avenue on March 27, 2023.

Photo credit: PRISTONE MAMBILI| MTAA WANGU

However, the move by police to stop the demonstrations has seen mixed reactions from locals.

Peter Mwaura- a businessperson in Nakuru called on police to focus on their duty of protecting people’s property and life including that of demonstrators.

“Why should police move in with teargas yet the protestors were peaceful? Let the businesses continue operating as police have a policy to protect the same,” he said.

Peter Mwaura, businessperson in Nakuru.

Photo credit: PRISTONE MAMBILI| MTAA WANGU

Meanwhile at Gikomba market just next to Nakuru’s Top Market, businesses were on but the traders said the demos in Nairobi had affected their businesses.

Ms Sophia Kibaiya said she could not travel to Nairobi for her stock due to the demonstrations.

“I operate in Nakuru but I could not go to Nairobi for my stock today due to the unrest ,” she said.

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Business as usual in Nakuru after police halt demos

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Pristone Mambili