The Russian Embassy in Kenya has issued a travel advisory for its citizens, urging them to avoid visiting crowded places in several cities across the country due to the worsening internal political situation.
In a press statement released on Tuesday 25th 2024, the embassy specifically named Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kakamega, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri, Kisii, Kilifi, Embu, and Kericho as areas where Russian citizens should exercise caution.
“Due to the aggravation of the internal political situation, we urge you to avoid visiting crowded places in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kakamega, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri, Kisii, Kilifi, Embu and Kericho in the coming days,” the statement read.
The advisory did not provide specific details on the nature of the political situation but emphasized the importance of safety for Russian nationals residing in or traveling to these areas.
Russian citizens were also encouraged to stay informed through local news and updates from the embassy.
The embassy also advised its citizens to maintain regular contact with their families and to report any emergencies immediately.
This came hours after the United States Embassy in Kenya issued a safety advisory for American citizens regarding planned protests in the Central Business District of Nairobi and other cities across the country.
The protests are in response to the proposed Finance Bill of 2024 and are expected to take place on Tuesday, June 25, and Thursday, June 27.
While organizers have emphasized that the demonstrations are intended to be peaceful, the Embassy cautions that large public gatherings can escalate and turn violent unexpectedly.
There is also potential for such events to spread to multiple areas within a city, causing widespread disruption.
Advisory to US Citizens from US Embassy
In light of these events, the Embassy advises individuals to exercise increased vigilance and avoid areas where protests are occurring.
“Traffic disruptions are anticipated, and it is crucial to stay informed by monitoring local media for the latest updates on the situation,” the statement read.
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Additionally, the Embassy has provided several actions for U.S. citizens to take for their safety.
“Avoid protest areas and demonstrations. Monitor local media for updates. Avoid crowds. Keep a low profile,” the statement read.
“Notify friends and family of your safety. Be aware of your surroundings. Review your personal security plans. Carry proper identification, including a U.S. passport (or a copy) with a current Kenyan visa,” it Further advised.
Russian Embassy Advisory for Russian Citizens
Protests in Kenya
Today, Tuesday, June 25, Members of Parliament (MPs) will vote on every clause of the contentious bill.
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Meanwhile, Kenyans have vowed to take to the streets in different parts of the country to protest against the bill.
The youth-led demonstrations, dubbed a ‘Total Shutdown,’ are expected to bring business to a standstill in Nairobi and various towns across the country.
The streets across different major cities are already filled with protestors including Nakuru, Eldoret, Mombasa, Kisii, Kisumu, Kakamega,Migori, Bungoma and Nyeri.
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