The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has condemned the police for what it termed an “illegal and unconstitutional” blockade that targeted youth returning to Nairobi from the Summertide Festival held in Diani, Kwale County.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, July 6, 2025, the association said police mounted a roadblock at the Dongo Kundu Bypass and barred hundreds of travellers from proceeding with their lawful journey to the capital.
“The blockade was unlawful and a gross violation of Article 39 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of movement and residence,” the association said.
MAK stated that many of the detained travellers missed the 2:00 p.m. SGR train to Nairobi and risked missing work on Monday, despite warnings issued by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku against absenteeism in relation to the Saba Saba commemorations.
Travelers left stranded
The association further noted that the security operation, allegedly targeting youth associated with recent anti-government protests, amounted to harassment and unjust profiling.
Some of the detained individuals said they were asked to produce travel documents or state their reasons for travelling to Nairobi.
“This is unacceptable in a country governed by the rule of law. Travelling within the Republic of Kenya does not require police permission,” MAK said, demanding a public explanation from the Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome.
The group also raised concern that the crackdown was a continuation of recent restrictive measures, including the blocking of Nairobi’s CBD and Upper Hill, and barring public service vehicles from accessing key parts of the city.
Calls for accountability
MAK said the restrictions have led to repeated incidents of lost property, police harassment, and exposure of innocent civilians to criminal elements.
In a previous statement dated June 25, the association warned that such tactics endanger public safety and undermine trust in law enforcement.
“We urge the police to cease this unconstitutional conduct and respect the rights of all Kenyans. Every person has the right to move freely, and no state officer has the authority to arbitrarily curtail that freedom,” the statement added.
The association has now called on Parliament and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) to investigate the recurring misuse of police powers.
