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Motorbike Set Ablaze, One Injured as Pro-Government Boda Boda Riders Counter Nationwide Protests

Cyclist near protest scene, June 27. IMAGE: G.S

In Summary:

1) Violence breaks out in Nairobi’s CBD, resulting in one injured boda boda rider and a torched motorcycle.

2) Pro-government boda boda operators rally against ongoing nationwide demonstrations, calling for a return to work.

Tensions have escalated in Nairobi’s central business district (CBD) as pro-government boda boda operators clashed with their rivals.

The conflict resulted in one rider being injured and his motorcycle set ablaze outside Naivas on Kenyatta Avenue, near Imenti House.

Police responded by deploying teargas to disperse the growing crowd along Moi Avenue, while the injured rider was forcibly removed from the scene by a photojournalist and a police officer.

Simultaneously, a new wave of counter-protesters, primarily consisting of boda boda riders, has emerged in response to the month-long nationwide demonstrations.

These pro-government supporters are rallying with placards bearing messages such as “It’s Now Time to Work” and “Let’s give President time.”

The group began their demonstration at the Green Park Terminus, advancing towards the city center past the Kenya Revenue Authority offices.

Earlier, the counter-protesters were observed refueling their motorcycles at Haile Selassie Roundabout.

Some riders are circulating the CBD unimpeded, with no visible police presence near this group.

Their placards also express frustration with younger protesters, with messages like “Tumechoka na Gen Z” (We’re tired of Gen Z).