U.S. Embassy Urges Kenyan Police and Protesters to Maintain Peaceful Demonstrations

The United States Embassy in Kenya has called on both the police and protesters to refrain from violence during the ongoing anti-government demonstrations that have swept across the country over the past two months.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Embassy urged the police to exercise restraint and protect the rights of citizens to engage in peaceful protests.

The statement also called on “provocateurs and opportunists” to avoid blocking roads and looting businesses, stressing that “all actors – police and protesters alike – should repudiate violence and be held accountable for wrongdoing.”

The Embassy expressed profound regret over the escalating violence during the protests, which has resulted in the loss of at least 53 lives as of Tuesday’s demonstrations.

The statement emphasized the need for constructive engagement between citizens, civil society, and a free and independent media to protect Kenya’s democracy.

Reflecting on the long-standing relationship between the United States and Kenya, the Embassy noted the Kenyan government’s recent remarks on addressing public grievances.

The Embassy encouraged the government to continue taking steps forward, particularly on issues of corruption and accountability, to promote national unity and reconciliation.

“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,” the statement concluded.