Foreign embassies and high commissions in Kenya have released a joint statement ahead of the first anniversary of the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests, which will be commemorated on 25th June, 2025.
The envoys have urged the Kenyan government and public to ensure peaceful demonstrations, uphold human rights, and guarantee transparency in handling protest-related violence.
The statement, issued on June 24, comes as citizens prepare to commemorate the demonstrations that gripped the country exactly a year ago, when widespread protests erupted in opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Honoring the Fallen and Upholding Rights
In their address, the envoys began by remembering those who lost their lives during the protests and reaffirmed every Kenyan’s constitutional right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
“We remember those who lost their lives and reaffirm every Kenyan’s right to peaceful assembly and to express themselves,” the statement reads.
A Call for Peaceful Demonstrations
As Kenya braces for anticipated protests on June 25, the envoys urged all parties to facilitate peaceful protests and avoid acts of violence.
They condemned the use of plain-clothed police officers in unmarked vehicles, noting that this practice erodes public trust and has already been declared unlawful by Kenya’s High Court.
“The use of plain clothed officers in unmarked vehicles erodes public trust and was ruled unlawful by the High Court.We urge full compliance with this ruling.”
Concern Over ‘Hired Goons’
The statement also raises concerns about the alleged use of hired individuals to infiltrate and disrupt peaceful gatherings.
The diplomats emphasized that protecting the right to protest is vital for maintaining civic space and safeguarding Kenya’s democratic integrity.
“We are troubled by the use of hired ‘goons’ to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings.”
Demand for Transparency and Justice
The joint statement concluded with a renewed call for transparent and independent investigations into all incidents of violence against peaceful demonstrators.
The envoys emphasized that accountability is not just about justice, it is essential for restoring faith in institutions.
“Transparency and accountability are critical—not only for justice, but for restoring confidence in the institutions meant to serve and protect their citizens.”
Signatories
The statement was endorsed by the embassies and high commissions of Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Sweden, and Finland.
