On Saturday, 24 August 2024, students from the University of Nairobi (UoN) took to the streets in a large-scale demonstration demanding the immediate release of their student leader, Mazdao Rocha.
Rocha was reportedly abducted by unknown individuals, sparking outrage among the student community and prompting them to stage protests across the city.
The demonstrations began in the early afternoon when students gathered at the University of Nairobi’s Main Campus, following a call to action from the Nairobi Students Association (UNSA).
In a statement released a day prior, UNSA urged all students to assemble and participate in the protests, expressing frustration over what they termed as the government's failure to address Rocha's disappearance.
"We call all the students of the University of Nairobi to assemble at the Main Campus by 1:00 pm. We shall gather here, from where we shall pray and dispatch search parties to retrieve our President," read the UNSA statement.
The organisation also appealed to students from other universities across the country to join them in solidarity, emphasizing that "an injury to one comrade is an injury to all comrades."
As the demonstration escalated, students began marching through major streets, blocking Waiyaki Way, a critical artery in Nairobi's transport network.
The protesters used rocks and debris to barricade the road, causing significant traffic disruptions and leaving motorists and pedestrians stranded.
Bonfires were lit, and the atmosphere was charged with tension as the students chanted anti-government slogans, demanding the immediate release of their leader and criticising President William Ruto’s administration for their perceived inaction.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with demonstrators holding large placards and branches, symbolising their demand for justice and accountability.
"Free Rocha!" was a common chant heard among the protestors, who expressed anger and frustration at the lack of response from authorities.
The students' actions reflected their mounting discontent with the government's handling of the situation and their desire for more transparent and effective governance.
Videos circulating on social media showed the extent of the protests, with some students seen throwing stones at motorists and pedestrians who attempted to pass through the blocked roads.
The situation further escalated when reports emerged that some protesters were engaging in clashes with police officers who were deployed to manage the situation.
The police presence, however, did little to deter the students, who continued to demand answers regarding their leader’s whereabouts.
In addition to calling for Rocha's release, the students used the demonstrations as a platform to voice their concerns over the current university funding model, which they argue is flawed and detrimental to their education.
The protests, therefore, were not just about Rocha’s disappearance but also a broader expression of discontent with the state of higher education in the country.
The disappearance of Mazdao Rocha has raised serious concerns among the university community and beyond.
Despite attempts to report Rocha’s abduction to the Central Police Station, the students claim that there has been little to no intervention from law enforcement. This lack of response, according to UNSA, has left them with no choice but to take to the streets.
As the protests continued into the evening, the UNSA reiterated their commitment to fighting for their leader's return and holding those responsible accountable.
They stressed the need for continued unity among the student body and encouraged peaceful demonstrations until their demands are met.
"We will not rest until our President is back with us," one student leader declared. "We are prepared to keep fighting, not just for Rocha, but for all of us who believe in justice and fair treatment."