NAIROBI, Kenya- United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Kenya, which has erupted in connection with protests and street demonstrations against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Reports of deaths and injuries, including those of journalists and medical personnel, have saddened the Secretary-General, highlighting the dire situation on the ground.
In a statement, the Secretary-General emphasized the importance of upholding the right to peaceful demonstration, a cornerstone of democratic societies.
He urged Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint and called on all parties to ensure that protests remain peaceful.
The recent unrest has seen a surge in arbitrary detentions, further raising international alarm.
“The right to demonstrate peacefully is fundamental,” the Secretary-General stated.
“I urge the Kenyan authorities to respect this right and to ensure that their response to the protests is measured and appropriate.”
The violence in Kenya has been marked by significant clashes between police and protestors. In Nairobi, tens of thousands of demonstrators overpowered police at times, marching towards Parliament in a bid to voice their dissent.
The police, overwhelmed by the sheer numbers, resorted to using live ammunition, resulting in numerous injuries among the protestors. Journalists and medical personnel, who were present to document and aid the injured, were also caught in the crossfire, underscoring the widespread impact of the violence.
The Secretary-General extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a swift recovery.
“My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones, and I hope for the quick recovery of those injured,” he said.
This wave of protests, largely driven by Kenya’s youth, has seen unprecedented levels of participation and coordination across the country.
Demonstrations have been reported in major towns including Mombasa, Eldoret, and Kisumu, reflecting a nationwide outcry against the government’s proposed financial measures.
The UN’s call for restraint comes at a critical juncture, as Kenya grapples with the balance between maintaining order and respecting democratic freedoms.
On Thursday, more protests are expected across the country.
