Tensions High in Meru as Meru National Polytechnic Students Clash with Police Over Fee Hike

 

Chaotic Scenes in Makutano, Meru after Police engaged in Running battles with Students from Meru National Polytechnic. Photo/Felix Kinyua

By Felix Kinyua

Makutano, Meru County – June 17, 2025

Tensions remain high in Meru’s bustling Makutano area following violent clashes between police officers and students from Meru National Polytechnic, who took to the streets to protest against a proposed increase in school fees.

The unrest, which has now entered its second consecutive day, has brought normal activities in the area to a standstill. Several businesses remained shuttered on Tuesday as shop owners expressed fear over escalating violence and destruction of property. The usually busy commercial hub has seen declining foot traffic, and public transportation has been severely disrupted.

According to eyewitnesses, the demonstrations began peacefully on Monday morning, with hundreds of students marching through the streets chanting slogans and calling for a review of the revised fee structure. However, the situation quickly escalated when a group of protestors allegedly attempted to loot a popular shopping mall in the area.

Security forces deployed to quell the demonstrations reportedly engaged the students in running battles. The confrontation turned chaotic after police allegedly shot one student during the altercation outside the shopping complex. The incident sparked widespread outrage among the demonstrators, prompting even more students to join the protest on the second day.

Unverified videos circulating on social media show scenes of teargas being fired, burning tires on the roads, and students hurling stones at police officers. The identity and condition of the injured student remain unclear, as authorities have yet to issue an official statement.

Local leaders have called for calm and urged the institution's administration to engage the student leadership in meaningful dialogue to resolve the impasse. “We are deeply concerned by the unfolding events and urge both parties to exercise restraint. A peaceful resolution is in the best interest of all,” said Meru Township MCA, Hon. Caleb Mutethia.

Efforts to reach the administration of Meru National Polytechnic for comment were unsuccessful by the time of publishing. However, sources within the institution hinted that talks were underway to address students' grievances and ensure learning resumes without further disruptions.

Meanwhile, Meru County police commander has assured the public that law enforcement is working to restore order and protect lives and property. “We urge residents to remain calm. Those found engaging in criminal activities under the guise of protest will face the full force of the law,” he stated.

The situation in Makutano remains volatile, with residents and business owners anxiously monitoring developments as authorities attempt to bring the protests under control.