The Indian embassy in Kenya recommended that Indian citizens limit non-essential travel and steer clear of areas affected by protests until conditions stabilize.
The Indian embassy in Kenya issued a caution on Wednesday to Indian citizens residing in the country, advising them to limit unnecessary travel and refrain from visiting areas affected by anti-tax protests until conditions stabilize.
“In light of the current tense situation, all Indians in Kenya are urged to exercise extreme caution, minimize non-essential travel, and avoid the protest-affected areas until the situation improves,” stated the Indian embassy in an advisory posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Official figures indicate that approximately 20,000 Indians presently reside in Kenya.
ADVISORY FOR INDIAN NATIONALS IN KENYA
— India in Kenya (@IndiainKenya) June 25, 2024
In view of the prevailing tense situation, all Indians in Kenya are advised to exercise utmost caution, restrict non-essential movement and avoid the areas affected by the protests and violence till the situation clears up.
Violent clashes and demonstrations erupted in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, and other cities across the country following the passage of a controversial bill by Kenya’s Parliament proposing tax increases.
On Tuesday, thousands of protesters stormed Kenya’s Parliament to oppose the tax proposals, resulting in parts of the building being set on fire and lawmakers fleeing amid confrontations with police. The unrest prompted a strong response from authorities, with President [Name] vowing to quell the disturbances.
During the protests on Tuesday, five people were fatally shot and 31 others injured. Journalists witnessed at least three bodies outside the parliament complex where police had opened fire. Medical personnel reported that five people were killed, including those attempting to aid the wounded. The Kenya Medical Association stated that over 30 individuals were injured, with at least 13 sustaining gunshot wounds.
Police used live ammunition and tear gas against protesters, some of whom sought medical assistance at a nearby church. The clashes extended to other urban centers, though details on arrests were not immediately available.
It marked the most direct challenge to the government in decades. Protesters had called for legislators to reject a finance bill introducing new taxes in East Africa’s economic hub, where frustrations over high living costs had been building. Youth who had enthusiastically supported Ruto’s promises of economic relief during his election campaign took to the streets to voice their opposition to the hardships caused by the reforms.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the deadly violence that engulfed Kenya following anti-tax protests, according to his spokesman on Tuesday. He was saddened by reports of fatalities, including those of journalists and medical personnel.
“The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the violence associated with these protests and street demonstrations,” said spokesman Stephane Dujarric during a briefing. “He is particularly saddened by reports of deaths and injuries, including those of journalists and medical personnel.”
