Thirteen embassies in Kenya have strongly condemned the government’s handling of the ongoing anti-finance bill protests, which erupted on Tuesday, June 25.
The diplomatic missions of Britain, the USA, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Estonia, Norway, Sweden, Romania, and Belgium have voiced deep concern about human rights violations and asked President William Ruto’s administration to obey constitutional laws.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the ambassadors highlighted Kenya’s constitutional right to peaceful protest.
“As friends and partners to Kenya, we note that Kenya’s constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest. All actors have the responsibility to respect, uphold, promote and fulfil the principles of democracy and the rule of law, particularly by ensuring a proportionate security response,” the statement read.
The group further condemned the violence that has marred the recent protests.
“We are deeply concerned by the violence witnessed in many parts of the country during the recent protests and are especially shocked by the scenes witnessed outside the Kenyan Parliament,” the ambassadors stated.
They also expressed regret over the loss of lives and injuries sustained, noting with alarm the use of live ammunition against protesters.
Highlighting the statement from Chief Justice Martha Koome, the diplomats voiced their concerns about the alleged abductions of protesters.
“We welcome the statement released by the Hon Chief Justice Martha Koome and are deeply concerned by allegations of abductions of protesters.”
The ambassadors called for calm and urged all parties to seek peaceful resolutions through dialogue.
“We welcome civic engagement by all Kenyans, in particular the youth, in addressing issues of vital public concern. We call for restraint on all sides, and encourage all leaders to find peaceful solutions through constructive dialogue,” they added.
