Kenya: Unrest and traffic disruptions in Kisumu, Kericho Nov. 1 /update 12

Event

Unrest and traffic disruptions continue in parts of Kenya with high National Super Alliance (NASA) opposition party support as of Wednesday, November 1. Since the October 26 election re-run, opposition supporters have reportedly continued to obstruct roads and throw rocks at vehicles in Kisumu and Kericho counties. The ruling Kenyan Jubilee party, led by President Uhuru Kenyatta, has called for a return to calm in the abovementioned counties.

On Tuesday, NASA leader Raila Odinga called for civil disobedience and peaceful protests to denounce the October 26 re-run election. A heightened security presence and continued traffic disruptions are expected in the coming days in areas where tensions remain high (i.e. in parts of western Kenya and certain parts of Nairobi - including Kawangware, Kibera, and Mathare), as protests are likely to continue despite the announcement by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) on October 30 declaring Kenyatta the winner of the country's repeat election.

Context

Voter turnout during the presidential election re-run that took place on October 26 was reportedly very low, with estimates placing participation at around 39 percent. The low turnout is largely attributable to the opposition's call to boycott the election as well as the violent unrest that hindered access to the polls. At least four people were killed in political violence in the aftermath of the vote.

On October 25, Odinga issued a statement declaring that the opposition coalition has become a "resistance movement" and stated that he intends to start a civil disobedience campaign and boycott of businesses considered to benefit from the current regime. Leaders from the opposition NASA coalition had also said they were seeking to ensure that new, credible elections be organized within 90 days.

Advice

Individuals in Kenya are advised to avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence, to monitor the situation, and to shelter in place in the event of a deterioration in the local security situation (widespread violent protests, etc.). Additionally, those undertaking long-distance travel within the country in the coming days are advised to consider traveling via plane (rather than by road) to minimize exposure to security threats.