In the end, the streets of Nairobi were quieter than expected.

A planned protest over rising fuel prices failed to gather pace on Tuesday morning, with police arresting at least 11 people who had attempted to march towards the city centre.

The group had begun assembling near the Archives area, a familiar meeting point for demonstrations in the capital. But before they could move far, anti-riot officers stepped in, dispersing the crowd and bundling several individuals into a waiting police vehicle.

By mid-morning, the city had settled into its usual rhythm.

Nairobi police commander Issa Mohamud said officers had acted early to prevent disruption. “From all corners, I can say the city is calm,” he told reporters. “We have taken in a few people who tried to disrupt peace here near the Archives.”

He added that those arrested would be charged in court. “So far we have arrested 11, and we will take them to court tomorrow,” he said, urging Kenyans to maintain calm.

Across the city, most businesses remained open. Traffic flowed, though more lightly than usual, as some motorists chose to stay away amid fears of unrest.

The protests had been organised largely online, without a clear leadership structure. That may have limited turnout, according to observers, even as frustration over the rising cost of fuel continues to simmer.

Elsewhere, police reported a similar picture.

Authorities in Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret and Nyeri said their towns remained calm through the morning. Concerns that key roads, including sections of Mombasa Road, might be blocked did not materialise.

Michael Sang, head of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in the Eastern region, said movement along the busy highway was uninterrupted. “There is a normal flow of traffic from Mombasa to Mlolongo and beyond,” he said.

Weather may also have played a role. Early morning rains in Nairobi appeared to dampen turnout, leaving only scattered groups attempting to gather.

Still, the issues behind the planned protests remain unresolved.

Fuel prices have risen steadily in recent months, adding pressure to households already grappling with the cost of living. While Tuesday’s demonstrations did not take hold, the mood on the ground suggests the conversation is far from over.

For now, though, the city has exhaled.