
Breaking today, Kenyan lawmakers were forced to abruptly evacuate the parliamentary precincts as Gen‑Z protesters intensified demonstrations across Nairobi’s Central Business District. In a dramatic turn, MPs departed via a rear exit just after the morning session adjourned early amid security warnings.
Lawmakers exit amid fears of security breach
The National Assembly’s morning sitting ended abruptly at around 11:45 am due to a lack of quorum. With protesters converging on State House and the Parliament grounds, vehicles bearing MPs hurriedly exited the premises via Uhuru Highway, prompted by an advisory to clear the area.
Protests escalate around legislative hub
Security forces had anticipated unrest, deploying razor wire barricades, metal fencing, anti‑riot squads, and water cannon units around Parliament Road . Yet, by early afternoon, protesters surged into the city centre, engaging police in standoffs near Moi and Kenyatta Avenues.

Commemoration turns confrontational
Originally convened to observe the one-year anniversary of last year’s anti-tax riots and honor victims of state violence, the demonstrations—the hallmark of the Gen‑Z movement—have turned increasingly forceful. With chants targeting President Ruto and authorities, many protesters aim for Parliament and State House access.
Violence, defiance, and state response
Tear gas and water cannons have been used in clustering protests, with footage showing protesters refraining from barricades and aggressively responding. Elsewhere in the CBD, injuries have been reported, including cases of tear gas canisters causing severe harm, such as a protester whose hand was critically injured.
National impact, local defiance
While Nairobi is the centre of mass protests, smaller marches are occurring in Mombasa, Nakuru, and Kisii. In some regions, riot police have clashed with demonstrators and deployed tear gas to maintain control.
What happens next?
- Will Parliament remain sealed off for the rest of the day—or longer?
- Can law enforcement prevent protesters from storming State House?
- Will this escalation force national dialogue on police conduct—or fuel further unrest?