The Motorists Association of Kenya has strongly criticised the government’s move to block access into Nairobi’s Central Business District and nearby areas, calling the restrictions unlawful, disruptive, and a violation of Kenyans' constitutional right to freedom of movement.

In a statement on Tuesday, the group said the government had enforced an abrupt and sweeping ban on vehicles entering key parts of the city, including the CBD, Upper Hill, and Hurlingham, with no prior warning.

They said the blockade had paralysed movement, disrupted businesses, and limited access to essential services such as hospitals, airports, courts, and markets.

“This has caused a scale of disruption never witnessed before. Freedom of movement is not a favour – it is a constitutional right, enshrined in Article 39 of the Constitution of Kenya,” the association said.

They listed a wide range of vehicles affected, including public transport vehicles, taxis, private cars, lorries, motorcycles, and long-distance buses. According to the association, Kenyans across the city were left stranded and unable to carry out normal activities.

“Vehicles are not a luxury for the average Kenyan. They are vital for emergencies, business, and basic movement,” the statement continued.

The group added that the government’s actions were not only locally disruptive, but had broader economic and regional implications, given Nairobi’s status as both the capital city and an East African hub.

“Nairobi is the beating heart of the nation. Shutting it down is irresponsible, unconstitutional, and economically reckless,” the association said.

They demanded that the authorities immediately reopen all blocked access routes and adopt traffic control measures that respect the law and the rights of citizens.

“Kenyans have a right to move freely, work, seek services, and travel without harassment or obstruction. End the blockade. Restore our rights. Open Nairobi. Now,” they said.

Earlier in the morning, police officers had sealed off several major roads leading into the CBD, including Parliament Road, Harambee Avenue, and Kenyatta Avenue. Barricades and wire-mesh fences were erected, and motorists from the Nyayo Stadium Roundabout were turned away at the Uhuru Highway entrance into the city.

While Ladhies Road remained open under tight police supervision, heavy security presence was reported around State House, with all adjacent roads completely blocked.

The road closures coincided with commemorations marking the anniversary of the Gen Z protests held on July 25, 2024, during which demonstrators stormed Parliament in a historic show of civil unrest.