27 Jun 2024 | 04:50 PM UTC
Kenya: Further protests and heightened security likely nationwide, particularly in Nairobi, through at least early July following recent violence /update 6
Further protests, heightened security likely across Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, through at least early July following recent violence.
Further protests and heightened security are likely across Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, through at least early July following a recent spate of violent unrest that erupted in reaction to the nation's controversial draft 2024 Finance Bill. Disruptive protests and clashes initially broke out starting June 20, with demonstrators ultimately storming the Parliament building and burning Nairobi City Hall on June 25; at least 22 fatalities and an unspecified number of injuries were reported during the June 25 unrest.
On June 27, protesters gathered at the State House in Nairobi, calling for President William Ruto's immediate resignation. Security forces have resorted to the use of tear gas and live ammunition in the Kenyan capital's central business district, although the number of causalities remains unclear. Related demonstrations have also occurred in cities elsewhere around the country, including Mombasa, Kisumu, Migori, Kisii, and Homa Bay. Unconfirmed reports indicate a clash between protesters and security personnel left one person dead in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado County. Internet service disruptions have occurred during the demonstrations.
The diplomatic services of several foreign countries, including the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), as well as the embassies of France and the US, have issued notices advising their citizens to avoid any demonstrations. Nevertheless, as of late June 27, they had not instructed their nationals to evacuate Kenya.
Major airports, including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and Moi International Airport (MBA), and all borders are currently open and operating normally.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence along key thoroughfares, near government buildings, and in the vicinity of any protest activity that may materialize. Especially tight security is likely in Nairobi around the State House, Parliament Building, government buildings, and along major highways. Security forces may establish checkpoints to prevent protesters from gathering. Activists could also block roads. Further clashes between security forces and demonstrators are likely; Kenyan authorities are generally quick to use force in dispersing protests. Business and telecommunications disruptions are possible in areas affected by protest activity. Officials could suspend telecommunications and internet services if unrest escalates.
Exercise increased caution if operating in Kenya, and especially Nairobi, through at least early July. Strictly avoid all protests. Do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks. Plan accordingly for disruptions to general and freight transport, as well as communication services. Confirm the status of driving routes shortly before travel. Heed instructions of local authorities. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a safe, nongovernmental building.
Activists have continued their protests despite Ruto's refusal to sign the draft legislation at issue, i.e. the 2024 Finance Bill; opponents of the bill assert it would result in increased taxes. The recent escalation follows a series of demonstrations since June 20, primarily led by young activists employing the "Occupy Parliament" slogan.
Kenya's government introduced the contentious bill in May 2024, proposing various new taxes to increase revenue and reduce the fiscal deficit from 5.7 percent to 3.3 percent of the GDP, with a target of raising $2.7 billion. The bill has faced significant opposition from the main opposition coalition, Azimio la Umoja, as well as public and civic groups, leading to widespread protests. The failure to pass a finance bill could create a substantial budget shortfall, complicating efforts to address the nation's considerable public debt.
