04 Oct 2024 | 11:24 AM UTC
Kenya: Ongoing nationwide protests amid impeachment proceedings, Oct. 4 /update 1
Protests reported across Kenya Oct. 4, amid impeachment proceedings against deputy president. Likely increased security, possible violence.
Protests are being reported in several cities across Kenya as of Oct. 4 amid the ongoing impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Authorities are conducting a nationwide public participation exercise, asking citizens to submit written requests. Protests and scuffles have erupted near consultation centers in the following cities at least: Kakamega, Nairobi, Nakuru, Nyahururu, and Nyeri. Violence has occasionally been reported; demonstrators in Nyeri blocked the highway towards Nyahururu.
Additional protests, scuffles, and violence are likely in major urban centers across Kenya. Authorities are likely to maintain an elevated security posture nationwide until the impeachment proceedings end. Security personnel are likely to establish particularly tight security near affected areas. If any protests occur, police will likely move quickly to disperse protesters. Officers could use force - including water cannons and tear gas - and conduct mass arrests to break up gatherings.
Avoid all protests and areas where crowds seem to be gathering. Plan for disruptions, especially near government buildings nationwide and near the Parliament building in Nairobi, throughout the proceedings. Heed all instructions of local authorities. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. If violence breaks out, seek refuge in a secure, non-governmental building.
The impeachment motion, which was tabled in Parliament on Oct. 1, includes several serious allegations against Gachagua, such as gross misconduct, violation of the constitution, undermining national unity, inciting ethnic hatred, and unlawfully acquiring assets worth over 5.7 billion Kenyan Shilling (USD 45 million).
Increased security was implemented during the first parliamentary session on Oct. 1, with several key roads leading to parliament being closed, including Parliament Road, Harambee Avenue, City Hall Way, and Uhuru Highway between Haile Selassie Roundabout and Kenyatta Avenue. A heavy police presence was deployed around the parliament buildings and at strategic points throughout the city.
