Traffic along the Meru-Nairobi Highway was disrupted for several days after residents staged protests at Nithi Bridge in Tharaka Nithi County. Demonstrators barricaded the road in both directions, demanding the completion of a long-promised bridge reconstruction project.
Residents claimed construction had briefly started but later stalled without clear communication from authorities.
The protests, which stretched into a fourth consecutive day, paralysed transport along the critical corridor linking Eastern and Central Kenya before traffic gradually resumed under tight security.
Escalation and Road Blockades
On Thursday, demonstrators expanded their action to parts of the Embu-Meru Highway, particularly at the Kajiunduthi area between Marima and Mitheru. Feeder roads were also blocked to prevent motorists from bypassing the protest zones.
Locals accused leaders of failing to prioritise infrastructure in the region, arguing that poor road conditions have disrupted businesses, schooling, and access to healthcare — especially during rainy seasons.
Some protesters expressed frustration that despite national prominence by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, tangible development in the area has lagged.
Property Damage and Government Response
Tensions escalated after protesters allegedly set fire to the Muthambi Sub-County offices, an act strongly condemned by the County Government of Tharaka Nithi.
Officials termed the incident criminal and politically instigated, distancing it from genuine grievances about road conditions.
The county administration maintained that both national and devolved governments have been investing in infrastructure projects, including within Maara Constituency.
Authorities warned that individuals involved in vandalism and highway disruptions would face legal consequences.
Residents Hold Their Ground
Despite the warnings, residents vowed to maintain pressure until visible progress is made on the stalled bridge and related road projects.
By evening, security was heightened along affected highways, with officials appealing for calm as partial transport operations resumed.
The situation underscores mounting frustration over infrastructure delays in the region and reflects broader concerns about service delivery and development priorities.
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