The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has criticised the National Police Service (NPS) over its handling of road blockades in Kikuyu and delayed response during incidents of violence on key transport routes.

In a statement posted on X on Sunday, April 12, 2026, the association expressed concern over what it termed uneven enforcement of law and order.

“We are sad the police were missing when goons were blocking roads, robbing with violence and damaging vehicles, but they later appeared with immense force during political activity,” the statement read.

The remarks follow disruptions reported on April 11, 2026, along the Southern Bypass and surrounding sections at Thogoto and Gitaru, where burning tyres and debris blocked traffic in both directions.

The blockade affected private motorists, public service vehicles, and cargo transport along the Nairobi–Western Kenya corridor, causing long delays and congestion.

Road Disruptions and Public Intervention

Motorists reported being stranded for several hours as heavy traffic built up on the affected routes. Images shared online showed smoke from burning materials and vehicles immobilised along the highway.

The association later issued a “Red Alert” and reported that the Southern Bypass was reopened after members of the public cleared obstacles from the road. MAK stated: “Southern Bypass now open by the public… Let us not allow any goon to block our Northern Corridor. The public has cleared and opened the Kikuyu Roads, and Traffic is now flowing.”

Police were later deployed to the area to disperse groups and restore order. Authorities have not provided detailed information on arrests or investigations linked to the incident.

Political Tensions Surrounding Kikuyu Rally

The disruption coincided with a political rally in Kikuyu Constituency organised under the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa were also part of a convoy travelling to the event.

According to communications from the opposition team, the convoy encountered police blockades at the Gitaru–Kikuyu Interchange, where officers used teargas to disperse vehicles. The convoy later split, with different groups taking alternative routes to Kikuyu and Mai Mahiu.

The rally proceedings were disrupted amid claims of attacks on attendees and damage to vehicles. Police had earlier been alerted to concerns over potential unrest through formal correspondence between political leaders and security agencies.

The incidents have intensified debate over public safety on major highways, with the Motorists Association urging authorities to strengthen security responses and ensure uninterrupted movement along critical transport corridors.