Kenya: Fatalities reported during protests in Nairobi Nov. 17 /update 3

Event

The situation in Nairobi is starting to return to normal after opposition supporters clashed with police earlier in the day. Thousands of supporters of the National Super Alliance (NASA) opposition coalition gathered in the capital to meet opposition leader Raila Odinga outside of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) as he returned from a ten-day overseas trip. Security forces clashed with protesters throughout the day, using live ammunition, water cannons, and tear gas to disperse the crowds. According to conflicting media reports, between two and three people were killed by police officers during the violence. However, the Kenyan National Police service released a statement claiming that five people were killed in separate stoning incidents, not by security personnel. As of 19:30 (local time), most roads have been cleared and tensions have started to decrease.

Context

On October 25, a day before presidential re-run elections were held, Odinga issued a statement declaring that the opposition coalition had 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. At least four people were killed in political violence in the aftermath of the October 26 re-run vote, which saw sitting President Uhuru Kenyatta win re-election amid an electoral boycott by the opposition.

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.