18 Sep 2024 | 09:12 PM UTC
Kenya: Anti-government activists call for demonstrations in central business districts across country Sept. 19
Activists call for protests in central business districts across Kenya Sept. 19 to demand presidents resignation. Tight security likely.
Anti-government activists have called for protests across Kenya on Sept. 19 to demand President William Ruto's resignation. Organizers and leaders have signaled that protesters will "occupy all Central Business Districts (CBD) in Nairobi and all counties." Barring additional concessions from Ruto or other government officials over the coming days, activists will likely call for further protest activity beyond Sept. 19.
Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in all major urban centers. Tight security is especially likely in Nairobi's CDB area, around the State House, parliament building, and along Mombasa and Airport roads. Transport disruptions will likely affect areas subject to protest activity and heightened security; business and telecommunications disruptions are also possible in such areas.
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. Officials could suspend telecommunications and internet services if the unrest escalates.
Exercise increased caution if operating in Kenya, especially in Nairobi, through at least Sept. 19. Strictly avoid all protests. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks set up by protesters. Plan accordingly for disruptions to transport, business operations, and telecommunications services. Confirm the status of driving routes shortly before travel. Heed instructions issued by local authorities and your home government. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a safe, nongovernmental building.
Ruto has taken several steps to address the demands of the protesters in Kenya, including withdrawing the controversial Finance Bill 2024, appointing new cabinet members, implementing austerity measures to reduce government expenditure such as budget cuts, travel restrictions, removal of confidential budgets in Executive offices, reduction of advisers in government by at least 50 percent, and dissolution of at least 47 state corporations with overlapping functions, in an effort to create a more accountable and responsive government. Despite these measures, protests have continued, with activists now calling for the president's resignation.
Several foreign countries' diplomatic services, including those of Australia, Canada, France, the UK, and the US, have issued notices advising their citizens to avoid demonstrations and other political gatherings in Kenya.
