As Saba Saba protests gained momentum on Monday, Parliament remained sealed off with razor wire, a barrier rarely seen outside prisons or military zones.

Heavily armed officers blocked access to Parliament, State House and City Hall as authorities moved to protect government buildings.

National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga warned organisers and participants against breaching security zones or engaging in unlawful acts.

“Entering or attempting to access protected government installations or restricted areas violates the Protected Areas Act and will attract immediate legal action,” noted Nyaga.

Images of the barricades went viral, with razor wire snaking around key sites. Some viewed the security as necessary, while others saw it as a sign of deepening mistrust between citizens and leaders.

“To me, that wire isn’t just metal it’s a message that the government sees us as a threat. It’s a wall between the people and their leaders,” observed Anthony Mwangi, a businessman near City Hall.

Security tightened across Nairobi’s Central Business District, with Parliament Road, Harambee Avenue and roads to City Hall and State House under strict control.

Officers patrolled Uhuru Highway intersections, Kenyatta Avenue roundabout, Moi Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue, Ronald Ngala Street and River Road on foot, in trucks and on horseback.

Nyaga explained that the National Police Service would act firmly against violence or unlawful conduct during protests while maintaining professionalism and restraint.

“The National Police Service upholds professionalism and restraint in its operations. However, any form of violent or unlawful conduct will be handled firmly to preserve order and protect lives and property,” he added.

Nyaga reiterated that the right to peaceful assembly is protected but warned that violence under the guise of protest would not be allowed.

“Looting, vandalism, blocking roads or incitement to violence under the guise of protests will not be tolerated. Such acts are criminal and will be met with lawful action by security agencies,” explained Nyaga.