Kenya: Further student protests possible in Nairobi after minor gatherings, Aug. 24

Further student protests are possible in Nairobi in the coming days following minor gatherings on Aug. 24. Students linked with the University of Nairobi Students Association (UNSA) reportedly gathered and blocked part of Waiyaki Way on Aug. 24. UNSA also reportedly called for a protest near the University of Nairobi main campus at 13:00 Aug. 24. It is not clear if this gathering occurred. The actions are in response to the disappearance of student leader Mazdao Rocha. Roacha was abducted after he announced plans for a student demonstration on Sept. 2.

Should additional protests occur, they will likely occur near the University of Nairobi or along major routes in the city. If Roacha is released, the threat of additional demonstrations will diminish over the near term. Police will likely deploy to any protest that materializes. Clashes between police and protesters are likely if demonstrators gather without permission, engage in acts of public violence, or block roads.