Foreign embassies in Kenya have issued security alerts and temporarily closed some public services ahead of planned demonstrations to mark the anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests.
The advisories have been issued due to concerns that the June 25 protests could disrupt movement, cause road closures, and heighten security risks, particularly in Nairobi and other major towns.
Embassies Suspend Services Ahead of Protests
The Embassy of Ireland in Nairobi announced that its Public Office would remain closed on Thursday, June 25. The mission did not provide further details but advised the public of the temporary closure.
Similarly, the Embassy of Spain in Kenya said its Consular Section would be closed to the public on Thursday, June 25, and that all appointments would be rescheduled. The embassy expressed hope that normal services would resume on Friday, June 26.
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The United States Embassy in Kenya also issued a demonstration alert for American citizens, warning that protests could occur at any time around the June 25 anniversary. The embassy cautioned that traffic congestion, roadblocks, and disruptions were possible across the country, including Nairobi’s Central Business District.
“June 25 is the anniversary of protests that occurred in Kenya during the past two years. Demonstrations may occur at any time, but the potential for protests is higher around June 25. Traffic disruptions, congestion, and roadblocks by protestors and police may occur during this period,” stated the embassy.
The U.S. mission advised its citizens to avoid crowds, monitor local media, keep vehicle doors locked, notify family and friends of their whereabouts, review personal security plans, and carry identification documents while traveling.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom updated its travel advice for Kenya, warning that protests, demonstrations, and strikes are common, particularly in Nairobi, and can quickly turn violent.
The advisory noted that demonstrators have been injured and killed in previous protests and urged British nationals to avoid political gatherings and large crowds.
The UK further warned that the security situation could change rapidly between June 25 and July 7.
Heightened Security as Protests Mark June 25 Anniversary
Several roads were closed in the early hours of June 25, with heavy police deployment witnessed across key areas ahead of planned protests marking two years since the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations that left dozens of young Kenyans dead.
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The commemorative events have been organized by Gen Z activists, civil society groups, and families of victims to honor those who lost their lives, were injured, or were affected during the protests.
Participants say the demonstrations are meant to demand accountability for the deaths and injuries reported in 2024, while also raising concerns about governance, economic pressures, and public accountability.
Security agencies deployed officers across Nairobi and other major towns in anticipation of the gatherings, while urging protesters to remain peaceful and comply with the law.
Tension rose outside Parliament Buildings, where several individuals were arrested while taking part in a memorial flower-laying ceremony for victims of the June 25, 2024, protests.
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