Thika Road Mall (TRM) management has announced a temporary closure of the shopping centre on Monday, July 7, 2025, citing a security advisory that warns of potential protests and civil unrest on the specified date.
Speaking exclusively to K24 Digital on Sunday, July 6, 2025, the mall’s operations manager, Altaf Parpia, confirmed the reports of a temporary closure, clarifying that the notification had been issued solely to tenants.
Altaf emphasised that the communication was intended exclusively for tenants to enable them to make appropriate arrangements.
“Yes, that communication was distributed exclusively to our tenants and was never intended for public dissemination. Had it been, we would have released broader public statements, but this notice was meant only for tenants so that they could plan accordingly,” he explained.
The same was echoed in an official communication dated July 6, 2025, addressed to tenants and signed by Anand Garikipati, Chief Executive Officer of TRM Holdings Limited.
In the statement, the management explained that the closure was aimed at safeguarding tenants, staff, and property from possible disturbances.
They cited a security alert issued by G4S on July 5, 2025, which raised concerns over public safety in the area.
“Based on a security advisory from G4S, dated July 5, 2025, regarding potential protests and civil unrest on July 7, 2025, Thika Road Mall management has decided to close the mall on that day to ensure the safety of all tenants, staff and property.”
The management also expressed appreciation for the understanding and cooperation of the tenants and invited any enquiries to be directed to designated contacts, Altaf and Hiren, via the provided phone numbers.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Please contact Altaf on 0733623308 or Hiren on 0706374274 if you have any questions or require further information.”
Saba Saba anniversary
The closure notice comes as Kenya marks the anniversary of the historic Saba Saba protests on Monday, July 7, 2025, with fresh demonstrations expected across major towns as citizens push for greater accountability, justice, and economic reforms.
The Saba Saba movement, originally born on July 7, 1990, was a turning point in Kenya’s political history.
It saw thousands of Kenyans take to the streets to demand the return of multiparty democracy, during a period when President Daniel arap Moi’s regime had outlawed opposition politics.
The protests, led by prominent activists and politicians such as Kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia, were met with brutal police crackdowns, mass arrests, and widespread violence—but they ultimately forced a political shift and led to Kenya’s reintroduction of multiparty elections.
Now, 35 years later, a new generation of protestors is breathing fresh life into the spirit of Saba Saba, with civil society groups and online movements rallying for demonstrations. Many are demanding justice for those killed or harmed during recent protests, particularly in June and July 2025, where reports of police brutality sparked national outrage.
The planned Saba Saba protests in 2025 are being spearheaded by Gen Z and millennial-led groups, who have used social media platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram to organise, educate, and mobilise.
The movement has gained traction for its non-partisan stance and its strong rejection of exploitative economic policies, excessive taxation, and government opacity.
