Chaos on Thika Road: Rowdy Youths Attack, Loot After Ruto’s Mathare Visit
Chaos broke out along Thika Road after unruly youth attacked motorists, passengers, and shops, leading to widespread looting and injuries following President William Ruto’s visit to Mathare and nearby areas.
Footage obtained by Kenyans.co.ke captured the youth storming into shops and hurling stones at vehicles, causing major disruptions along the Thika Super Highway. Sections of Outering Road, from Survey to the Kariobangi Roundabout, and areas near Utalii College were rendered impassable as drivers were forced to make abrupt U-turns while businesses closed hurriedly.
The unrest unfolded shortly after Ruto’s tour, where he promoted his development agenda while navigating through Mathare and heading towards Ruaraka. Mathare, known for its political volatility, witnessed heightened tension as some youths exploited the visit to create chaos.
By the time of reporting, authorities had yet to restore order in the affected areas. Preliminary reports suggest that poor planning of the President’s visit left motorists and pedestrians vulnerable to the chaos in Mathare, an area notorious for high crime rates. The aftermath included property damage, injuries, and a standstill in normal operations.
Some residents sought refuge in nearby petrol stations as the insecurity escalated.
Additionally, Ruto’s visit was marred by political tension when Mathare MP Anthony Olouch faced hostility from his constituents. Allowed to speak by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Olouch was met with jeers and chants of “Olouch Must Go!” as he attempted to address the crowd. Despite the uproar, Olouch pressed on with his speech as Ruto, Kindiki, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, and Senator Karen Nyamu observed the scene.
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Chaos on Thika Road: Rowdy Youths Attack, Loot After Ruto’s Mathare Visit
