US Embassy Issues Statement On Anti-Abduction Protests
US citizens in Kenya have been cautioned to take caution ahead of planned demonstrations in Nairobi and other major cities on Monday, January 6.
The US Embassy issued a demonstration advisory, stating that while the rallies were mostly peaceful on Monday morning, the prospect of violence erupting could not be ruled out.
The embassy also advised its residents of probable substantial traffic disruptions caused by heightened checkpoints, particularly on major highways in Nairobi.
“There have been calls for nationwide anti-government protests across Kenya on Monday, January 6, 2025,” the statement read.
“Demonstrations in central business districts across the country and potential road blockages of major thoroughfares are possible.”
“Protests that appear peaceful can turn violent at any moment. Police checkpoints and traffic disruptions are to be expected,” the advisory stated.
The embassy also released many safety suggestions for its nationals, with avoiding crowded locations being the primary concern.
US nationals were also advised to bring a copy of their passports together with their current Kenyan visas and to keep family and friends informed of their whereabouts at all times.
The advise also urged people to keep their automobile doors and windows closed, especially when traveling through protest-prone regions.
ALSO READ:
- Orengo Responds To Claims Linda Mwananchi Fakes Teargas Chaos
- Kenya’s Omanyala Clocks Sub 10 To Win Men’s 100M In Xiamen Diamond League
- DCI, Other Security Agencies Foil Terrorist Attack & Recover IED
- EXPLAINER: Why Kenyan Shilling Could Fall To Ksh180/Dollar From Fuel Crisis
- KPA Announces New Prices For Likoni Ferry Services, Makes 50% Raise
On Monday, demonstrations were reported in various cities around the country, including Nairobi and Mombasa. While the protests were mainly peaceful, social media users reported a few arrests.
Videos shared online showed antagonism between plain-clothed officers and bystanders, with the latter accusing the officers of deliberately targeting protestors.
This was the second wave of anti-abduction demonstrations, following a similar one on New Year’s Eve.
During the protests, several young Kenyans who had been kidnapped since December 1, 2024, were reunited with their families, including prominent social media figure Billy Mwangi.
US Embassy Issues Statement On Anti-Abduction Protests
