The US Embassy in Kenya has finally spoken out since the anti-government protests began on June 18, 2024.
Since the protests began, the embassy has only been issuing demonstration alerts to its citizens in the country.
The embassy has asked Kenyan police officers to exercise restraint and protect the rights of people to demonstrate peacefully during the anti-government protests.
In a statement on July 18 the US Embassy noted that it was deeply concerned by reports of violence, including shootings and abductions of protestors, journalists, and others.
“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,” reads the statement in part.
“Constructive engagement of citizens and civil society, aided by a free and independent media, is a pillar of democracy. These are values we share with Kenya and which we must all protect.”
US Embassy Issues Plea
Furthermore, the Embassy called on provocateurs and opportunists to avoid blocking roads and looting businesses.
It further directed all actors – police and protesters alike – to repudiate violence and be held accountable for wrongdoing.
“As a long-time friend and partner to Kenya, the Embassy notes the government’s July 18 remarks about addressing public grievances and encourages the government to continue taking steps forward, including on corruption and accountability, to promote national unity and reconciliation,” the statement further reads.
“As both of our countries strive to build stronger democracies that deliver peace and prosperity for our citizens, this is an important moment for all Kenyans to demonstrate the democratic values we share.”
Three more people were on Tuesday killed during the ongoing nationwide anti-government protests, taking the death toll since the demonstrations began about a month ago to 53.
Deaths Reported During Protests
During the protests, police continued to use excessive force while dealing with protesters, opening fire indiscriminately.
KNCHR also recorded 82 more injuries, taking the number to 574. There were 77 more arrests, pushing the tally to 1,201 since the protests began.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration on July 17 recommended establishing the office of the Coroner General to investigate deaths, including those resulting from police actions.
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The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) also warned media houses in the country against broadcasting content related to the ongoing anti-government protests that it deems unconstitutional.
CA Director General David Mugonyi, in a letter to newsrooms on Wednesday, July 17, emphasized that while Articles 33(1) and 34(1) of the Constitution of Kenya guarantee freedom of expression and media independence, these rights do not extend to “propaganda for war, incitement to violence, hate speech, or advocacy of hatred.”
According to Mugonyi, a section of licensed media houses compromised objectivity and balance in the reporting of crime, security operations and/or crisis situations.
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