France, July 8 -- Police mounted a heavy presence across Nairobi on Monday, blocking roads and deterring anti-government protesters as Kenya marked Saba Saba Day, the anniversary of the 1990 pro-democracy uprising. The city's usually bustling streets were largely deserted, with many residents opting to stay home amid fears of violence.

Saba Saba Day, meaning "Seven Seven", commemorates the mass demonstrations that forced Kenya's return to multi-party democracy after years of autocratic rule.

This year, police set up roadblocks and restricted access to central Nairobi, where previous rallies have taken place. Most businesses remained closed, and an online map showing at least 20 police roadblocks was widely shared on social media.

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