MERU UNIVERSITY STUDENTS PROTEST RISING INSECURITY

Students from Meru University on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, staged protests and blocked the Meru–Maua highway to voice their anger over rising insecurity and the absence of street lighting in residential areas near the campus. They cited frequent incidents of attacks, muggings, assaults, and stabbings, particularly at night when heading to their hostels.

The demonstrations turned chaotic after students lit bonfires on the road and clashed with police, who responded by firing teargas canisters to disperse them. The protest was organized by the Student Association of Meru University (SAMU), which has repeatedly raised alarm over worsening insecurity around the institution. In a notice issued on Monday, SAMU said inadequate street lighting and weak security measures had left students vulnerable, especially during evening movements.

“Having made several attempts to engage the authorities with no tangible response, we have decided to hold a peaceful demonstration to demand immediate action,” read the letter signed by SAMU Secretary General Cosmas Emerkwa and President Teddy Samuel.

This is not the first time Meru University students have taken to the streets over safety concerns. On January 28, 2025, they staged a similar protest after a Technical University of Mombasa student visiting his girlfriend was fatally stabbed in Meru.