Anti-government protests: US Embassy calls for restraint and peace

US Embassy offices in Nairobi. [Standard, File]

The US Embassy in Nairobi has condemned the recent escalation of anti-government protests across the country.

 In a statement on Thursday, July 18, the Embassy urged all parties to uphold peace, respect the rule of law and safeguard peaceful demonstrations.

“As we enter the fifth week of protests throughout Kenya and surpass 50 protest-related deaths, the Embassy of the United States of America notes with profound regret the loss of life and destruction of people's livelihoods and calls on all actors to remain peaceful and respect the rule of law,” the embassy said in a statement.

Expressing concern over reported violence, including shootings and abductions of protesters and journalists, the embassy emphasized the critical role of civil engagement and a free media in democratic societies.

“The Embassy urges police to exercise restraint and protect the rights of people to demonstrate peacefully. We call on provocateurs and opportunists to avoid blocking roads and looting businesses. All actors - police and protesters alike - should repudiate violence and be held accountable for wrongdoing,” the statement read.

The statement follows an earlier directive by police banning demonstrations within Nairobi's Central Business District and surrounding areas,” the Embassy said in a statement.

Acting Police IG Douglas Kanja in his statement said the ban was informed by what he termed as escalation to criminal elements infiltrating peaceful protests.

However, High Court Judge Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued a temporary restraining order against the police directive.

The court stressed the importance of upholding constitutional rights amid the ongoing unrest.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported that so far, a total of 50 people have died in connection with the anti-government protests.

The deceased are from Nairobi (21), Nakuru (3), Laikipia (2), Narok (1), Kajiado (3), Uasin Gishu (4), Kakamega (2), Kisumu (3), Kisii (1), Mombasa (3), Siaya (1), Kiambu (1), Nandi (1),Embu (1), Homabay (1), Nyeri (1) and Bungoma (1).