The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has expressed serious concerns about the violence that erupted during the anti-Finance Bill 2024 protests in Kenya. In a statement on Wednesday, Guterres called on Kenyan authorities to allow peaceful demonstrations to prevent further harm and loss of life among young Kenyans.
“I am deeply saddened by the reports of deaths and injuries – including of journalists and medical personnel – connected to protests and street demonstrations in Kenya,” Guterres stated. “I urge the Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint and call for all demonstrations to take place peacefully.”
Moussa Faki, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), echoed Guterres’ sentiments, urging stakeholders to remain calm and engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the issues fueling the protests. “The Chairperson reiterates the total solidarity of the African Union with the Government and People of Kenya and exhorts them to maintain peace, security, and stability in the country,” Faki said.
Tuesday’s mass protests turned deadly when Anti-Riot Police Unit (ATPU) officers opened live rounds of ammunition, resulting in several fatalities and injuries. Amnesty International reported that 31 people were injured and five were killed as of 6:36 pm on Tuesday.
Protesters breached Parliament buildings, causing significant vandalism, though many maintained they were marching peacefully. Following the chaos, parliamentarians were evacuated, and the bodies of protesters were seen on Parliament Road.
In a late-night national address, President William Ruto condemned the breach of parliament as treasonous and vowed to take action against the organizers and financiers of the protests. “We must isolate crime from democratic expression and separate criminals from people exercising their freedom of expression and divergent opinion,” President Ruto emphasized.
The violence underscores the intense public opposition to the Finance Bill 2024 and highlights the urgent need for dialogue and restraint to prevent further escalation.