The United States (US) Embassy in Kenya has issued an advisory to its citizens in the country amid the ongoing protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
In a statement released on June 18, the Embassy warned its citizens of the expected violence in some parts of Nairobi and advised them to stay away from potential hotspots of demonstrations.
“Organizers have stated that the events are intended to be peaceful. However, large public gatherings can turn violent at any moment. It is recommended to remain vigilant and aware of circumstances and avoid large gatherings. Traffic disruptions are expected,” read part of the statement.
The US Embassy further advised them to monitor the reliable local media and stay informed by keeping up with the latest news and updates.
Also, they were urged to steer clear of large gatherings or crowded areas to reduce the risk of becoming a target and to maintain a low profile to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
Furthermore, the Americans were asked to have evacuation plans in place that do not rely on the U.S. government for assistance in case of any outbreak of violence.
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The citizens were requested to notify friends and family of their safety and to stay alert and be conscious of their environment at all times.
Other safety measures to put in place included reviewing their personal security plans and to always carry valid identification, including a U.S. passport with a current Kenyan visa.
Meanwhile, the citizens were further cautioned to stay alert in locations frequented by tourists/foreigners and to have travel documents up to date and easily accessible.
The directive comes after Kenyans took to the streets in Nairobi to protest the proposed increase in taxes through the Finance Bill 2024.
The demonstrations dubbed ‘Occupy Parliament’, are meant to pressure lawmakers against passing the bill which the House will consider on Tuesday June 18.
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The bill has met opposition from sectors including politicians, religious leaders and Kenyans at large
Police have been deployed around the National Archives in Nairobi CBD where protesters were to converge before marching to Parliament. Consequently, the protest has witnessed many arrests of civilians, activists and journalists by Police Officers.
Some Journalists covering the #OccupyParliament protests have reportedly faced harassments from officers while others injured after being hit by water cannon and teargas cannister.
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