The United States of America has condemned the ongoing violence witnessed during demonstrations.
The US Embassy in Kenya has called on police to exercise restraint while dealing with protesters.
The embassy stated that there have been reports of violence, including shootings and abductions of protesters, journalists, and others.
“As we enter the fifth week of protests throughout Kenya and surpass 50 protest-related deaths, the Embassy of the United States of America notes with profound regret the loss of life and destruction of people’s livelihoods and calls on all actors to remain peaceful and respect the rule of law,” a statement by the embassy said.
They called for a constructive engagement of citizens and civil society, aided by a free and independent media to promote democracy.
The embassy said the US shares these values with Kenya and must be which must be protected.
“The Embassy urges police to exercise restraint and protect the rights of people to demonstrate peacefully. We call on provocateurs and opportunists to avoid blocking roads and looting businesses,” they added.
The US said that all actors including the police and protesters who repudiate violence be held accountable for wrongdoing.
“As a long-time friend and partner to Kenya, the Embassy notes the government’s July 18 remarks about addressing public grievances and encourages the government to continue taking steps forward, including on corruption and accountability, to promote national unity and reconciliation,” the statement read in a part.
The embassy said that both countries should strive to build stronger democracies that deliver peace and prosperity for the citizens.
According to them, it is an important moment for all Kenyans to demonstrate the democratic values we share.
The country has witnessed a wave of protests that left many dead, Kenyans sustaining injuries and businesses counting losses.
On Thursday police banned any demonstrations within the Nairobi CBD and its surroundings.
Acting Police IG Douglas Kanja expressed regret that what started as peaceful demonstrations has led to the loss of lives and destruction of property after the protests were infiltrated by criminals.
However, the High Court suspended a decision to ban demonstrations in Nairobi.
Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued a temporary order restraining the IG and any other person serving within the NPS from enforcing the July 17 decision.
She further directed Kanja to circulate an official communication regarding the orders she issued to all officers of the National Police Service.
This she said should be done not later than tomorrow (July 19) and evidence should be filed in court showing they have abided by her directive.
Source: theStars .co.ke
Original writer: PERPETUA ETYANG