Tuesday, June 24, 2025 - The United States, United Kingdom, and ten other foreign missions have raised concern over the possible deployment of goons and masked police officers ahead of Wednesday’s June 25th protests in Kenya.
In a joint statement released Tuesday, June 24th,
the envoys endorsed the planned demonstrations, which aim to honour protesters
killed during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill rallies.
Citing disturbing scenes from the June 17th
protests, where armed thugs were filmed assaulting demonstrators in Nairobi’s
CBD, the diplomats called for accountability and protection of civic freedoms.
“We are troubled by the use of hired 'goons' to infiltrate
or disrupt peaceful gatherings.”
“Protecting the right to protest is vital to preserving
civic space and a cornerstone of Kenya's vibrant democracy,” the statement
read.
They also condemned the use of plainclothes officers in
unmarked vehicles, noting that it violated a High Court ruling.
“We urge full compliance with this ruling,” the envoys
added.
The envoys called for calm and urged authorities to ensure
peaceful demonstrations, while demanding swift, transparent investigations into
past abuses.
The warning comes after international backlash over a June
17th viral incident where a police officer was filmed shooting a
mask vendor.
The victim remains hospitalized, while the officers involved
are in custody.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has defended the police,
promising to stand by them - as long as they act within the law.
The Kenyan DAILY POST
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