31 Dec 2024 | 04:33 PM UTC
Kenya: Further nationwide protests over alleged police abductions likely through early January
Opposition activists likely to protest in Kenya through early January to demand liberation of protesters allegedly abducted by police.
Further nationwide protests are likely through early January as opposition activists continue to demand the liberation of activists allegedly abducted by police forces for protesting against incumbent President William Ruto's government. Nationwide demonstrations - including in Eldoret, Embu, Mombasa, and Nairobi - were held on Dec. 30 under the slogan #EndAbductionsKE. Demonstrators clashed with security forces, who used tear gas to disperse crowds. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) alleges that at least 53 individuals were arrested; 23 of them, including a senator, were subsequently freed.
Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security presence in the coming days. Hotspots include key thoroughfares, near government buildings, and near any protest activity that materializes. In Nairobi, tight security is especially likely in the Central Business District (CBD) near the State House, Parliament building, and along Mombasa and Airport roads. In the event of protests, security forces may establish checkpoints to prevent protesters from gathering. Transport disruptions are probable, especially if participants march on or block roadways. Clashes between security forces and demonstrators are likely; authorities are generally quick to use force in dispersing protests. Telecommunications disruptions are possible.
Monitor trusted sources as protesters may rally on short notice. Avoid all protests. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks set up by protesters. In the event of demonstrations, plan accordingly for disruptions to transport, business operations, and telecommunications services. Confirm the status of routes shortly before travel. Heed instructions issued by local authorities. If violence occurs nearby, leave the area immediately and seek shelter in a safe, nongovernmental building. Maintain contact with your home government's diplomatic mission.
Weekly protests occurred across Kenya between June-October 2024, originally demanding the withdrawal of a controversial Finance Bill. Despite President Ruto implementing a series of changes - including 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 - protests continued, with activists calling for the president's resignation. The KNCHR reports that 82 people have been abducted since June.
