As Nairobi prepares to host the fifth edition of the Nairobi City Marathon, security agencies are raising concern over possible disruptions linked to ongoing public grievances across the country.

According to Nairobi Regional Operations head Benjamin Bowen, there is a real risk of spontaneous demonstrations, commonly referred to as maandamano, which have recently been triggered by issues such as rising cases of femicide, child disappearances, and public dissatisfaction with government actions like the establishment of an Ebola quarantine facility in Laikipia.

Bowen noted that unlike before, many protests now happen without prior notice to authorities, making them harder to manage and posing a risk to large public gatherings like the marathon.He explained that even Nairobi has seen attempts at such demonstrations recently, showing that the situation is unpredictable.

Apart from protests, security agencies are also concerned about other threats including street crime, especially mobile phone snatching by criminals using motorcycles, as well as the broader risk of terrorism.Despite these challenges, Bowen reassured participants and organisers that the National Police Service is fully prepared.

Multiple units, including the Administration Police, Traffic Department, General Service Unit (GSU), and support from the National Youth Service (NYS), will be deployed to ensure safety and maintain order.

The marathon is scheduled to start early Sunday morning at City Hall Way and has attracted over 17,000 runners competing in different categories ranging from 5km to the full 42km race.Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help ensure the event proceeds without incident.