On October 17, 2024, police used tear gas to disperse students from the Tharaka Technical and Vocational College who had barricaded the Marimanti-Gatanga road.

The students were protesting the institute’s sudden decision to raise fees. They had blocked the road using rocks and bonfires. Some students threw stones.

Scholars at Risk is concerned about the use of force during student. While state authorities have the responsibility to maintain order and prevent disruption, they must refrain from the disproportionate use of force and endangerment of civilians and must respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Students and members of the public must refrain from violence, especially on campus, and also respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Such actions, beyond harming the immediate victims, have a chilling effect on academic freedom.

Sources:
https://www.citizen.digital/wananchi-reporting/tharaka-students-barricade-road-during-demo-over-fees-n315078
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgYTBl2vCjU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHG1bULr1gE