The United States Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, has issued a warning that its citizens should be aware of possible disruptions in traffic, congestion and roadblocks throughout Kenya on June 25 due to planned demonstrations.
On June 18, the embassy released its security alert, warning that demonstrations may take place in the Nairobi Central Business District, other urban centres across the country, and marking the anniversary of demonstrations seen over the past two years.
Protests could take place at any time, but the likelihood of them happening is increased around June 25, the advisory read.
The embassy cautioned people that they may see roadblocks both from protesters and the police during the time period, and that this would impact traffic in affected areas.
“Protestors and the police might cause traffic disruptions, congestion, and road closures during this time,” it said.
The advisory also recommended that U.S. citizens “refrain from participating in demonstrations and large gatherings, stay tuned for updates in the local media and remain vigilant about personal security.”
The embassy also urged its citizens to keep the doors and windows of their vehicles shut. Meanwhile, while travelling, inform family and friends of their location, check personal security plans and have copies of their U.S. passports and valid Kenyan visas.
The planned demonstrations will be carried out on the 25th day of June, 2024, in commemoration of the anti-finance bill demonstration, which has been a cause for protest in the entire country, making it the largest youth demonstration movement in Kenya’s history.
Martha Karua of the People’s Liberation Party, who are carrying out peaceful demonstrations all over the country on the 25th day of June, has been among the activists marching to Jogoo House to present a notice to the police requesting the government to release the two activists who were arrested yesterday. On Wednesday, the families of the victims, together with activists Boniface Mwangi and former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga marched to Jogoo House presenting a notice to the police requesting the government to release the two activists who were arrested yesterday.
The group also called for authorities to declare June 25 a public holiday to commemorate those affected during last year’s protests.
The protests are anticipated to be about remembrance, accountability and justice for those affected by the demonstrations.
The planned festivities come ahead of a government move to establish a compensation scheme for those who were victims of human rights violations in relation to protests and demonstrations.
So far, Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has been tracking several cases of compensation following incidents reported between 2017 and 2024, while the organisers have insisted that the events will remain peaceful and in line with the law.
