By Dawan Africa - Admin
Kenya, September 13 , 2026 - Nairobi residents, traders and motorists are facing possible disruption today as the Linda Mwananchi movement holds its Nairobi rally, with police restricting large political gatherings in the Central Business District.
The movement is expected to begin its programme with a church service at All Saints Cathedral before proceeding through parts of Nairobi and ending with a major rally at Jacaranda Grounds. A large crowd had gathered at the cathedral ahead of the procession, according to reports.
Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud said large political rallies would not be allowed in the CBD, arguing that such gatherings could interfere with the normal operations of the city centre.
Mohamud said the CBD serves workers, businesses, tourists and other members of the public and would not be allowed to become a battleground for political rivalry. Police also cited intelligence suggesting that some groups could mobilise youths to disrupt the gathering and confront rival supporters.
The police commander warned organisers and supporters to control their crowds and avoid violence. Officers have promised to take lawful action against anyone who threatens public order, life or property.
Although the movement will not be allowed to hold a rally in the CBD, its planned programme includes visits and stops in several busy commercial and residential areas. The announced route includes All Saints Cathedral, Marikiti Market, Gikomba Market, Burma Market, Stage 17, B Centre, Manyanja and Jogoo Road before the procession proceeds to Jacaranda Grounds.
The route places the rally close to traders, public transport operators, shoppers and residents who depend on these areas for their daily activities. The procession could affect traffic flow, deliveries, customer access and public transport operations as supporters move towards the main venue.
Traders in Marikiti, Gikomba and Burma may experience reduced customer traffic or temporary interruptions if crowds gather near their premises. Matatu operators and passengers using Jogoo Road, Manyanja and neighbouring routes may also face delays.
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However, claims about blanket business closures or complete road closures should be verified with police, Nairobi County officials and individual traders. Police have confirmed restrictions on large political rallies in the CBD, but this does not automatically mean every business along the wider route has been ordered to close.
Police have said they have increased security around key points, including All Saints Cathedral and the expected procession route. The security operation is intended to prevent clashes between rival groups and protect residents, businesses and property. Officers have urged political leaders to restrain their supporters and reject attempts to mobilise young people for confrontation.
The movement’s organisers and ODM leaders have denied plans to disrupt the event. ODM has also said it will not interfere with the rally scheduled to take place at Jacaranda Grounds.
Residents planning to visit the CBD, Gikomba, Burma, Marikiti, Jogoo Road or Jacaranda should expect possible delays and a heavier police presence. Commuters are advised to confirm route changes before leaving home, allow extra travel time, avoid moving towards large crowds and follow police instructions at roadblocks or diversions.
Businesses should monitor official announcements and assess conditions on the ground before deciding whether to open, close or adjust their operating hours. Residents should also avoid sharing unverified claims about clashes, injuries, arrests or road closures.
The Nairobi rally is more than a political gathering at Jacaranda Grounds. Its route takes the movement through some of the city’s busiest markets and neighbourhoods, bringing political mobilisation into areas where thousands of people work, trade and travel every day.
That makes the experience of traders, commuters and residents an important measure of the rally’s impact. The key question today is not only how many people attend the event, but whether Nairobi can accommodate a major political procession without disrupting livelihoods, public safety and the normal functioning of the city.