Public transport services in Kiambu County remained largely paralyzed this morning as heightened tension from Saba Saba protests prompted police to mount roadblocks on major routes, effectively turning away most Public Service Vehicles (PSVs).
While the county headquarters in Kiambu town itself stayed relatively calm, residents faced significant challenges commuting as matatus and other PSVs were scarce. Main roads were dominated by private cars, with few public vehicles navigating the restricted routes. The situation disrupted daily activities for many workers and business people who rely on affordable public transport.
Drivers who attempted to operate reported being turned away at multiple police checkpoints. Peter Kuria, a driver attached to Kaka T Sacco, narrated his ordeal while trying to reach Kiambu town from the outskirts.
“I found a roadblock in Tinganga. I had to find a different route via Riabai to make it to Kiambu town. I couldn’t get to the stage as there were police who turned me away. I had to find another way. There is tension and roads have been blocked. We cannot leave the stage as well; we’ve been blocked,” Kuria Said
Kuria’s experience mirrored that of several other operators who spoke of frustration and uncertainty. Many PSVs remained parked at various stages, unable to proceed due to the security operation.
The roadblocks appeared targeted at preventing large-scale movement of public vehicles that could potentially ferry crowds to protest hotspots. Security personnel were visible at key junctions, conducting checks and advising drivers to avoid certain areas. Despite the restrictions, no major incidents of violence were reported in Kiambu town by mid-morning, with most businesses opening cautiously and residents going about their activities in a subdued atmosphere.
Local leaders and transport associations have urged calm as they engage with authorities to ease the situation. Residents expressed mixed reactions, with some appreciating the security measures to maintain peace while others lamented the economic impact of the disrupted transport.
The paralysis comes on Saba Saba; a date historically associated with pro-democracy protests in Kenya. In Kiambu, the heavy police presence has ensured minimal disruption to law and order so far, though at the cost of normal public mobility.
County transport officials said they were monitoring the situation and hoped normalcy would return later in the day as tensions ease. Motorists have been advised to exercise caution, plan alternative routes, and comply with police directives to avoid confrontations.
As the day progresses, authorities are expected to review the roadblocks depending on the security assessment. For many in Kiambu, the morning’s events highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining public order and ensuring essential services like transport remain functional during such periods of heightened political activity.
by Kipkorir Felix and Grace Naishoo
