US, UK, and EU Warn Kenya Against Masked Police and Goons Ahead of June 25 Protests

As Kenya braces for the June 25 nationwide protests, a coalition of twelve foreign envoys, including representatives from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and the European Union, have issued a joint statement warning the Kenyan government against the deployment of masked police and hired goons to disrupt peaceful demonstrations. 

The protests, set to commemorate the lives lost during last year’s anti-Finance Bill protests, have garnered widespread support across civil society, with growing international attention on how Kenyan authorities handle the demonstrations. 

In a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday, June 24, the diplomats expressed “deep concern” over the use of armed civilians, often referred to as goons, who have been seen in past protests assaulting demonstrators under apparent police protection. 

“We are troubled by the use of hired ‘goons’ to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings. Protecting the right to protest is vital to preserving civic space and a cornerstone of Kenya’s vibrant democracy,” the envoys said. 

They further warned against the continued use of plainclothes police in unmarked vehicles, referencing a prior High Court ruling that declared such actions unlawful. 

“The use of plainclothes officers in unmarked vehicles erodes public trust and was ruled unlawful by the High Court. We urge full compliance with this ruling,” the statement added. 

The envoys, including those from the Netherlands, Canada, Sweden, and Denmark, urged all stakeholders to ensure that the upcoming demonstrations remain peaceful, and called on Kenyan authorities to facilitate rather than frustrate the constitutional right to protest. 

“As citizens prepare to mark this anniversary, we call on all to facilitate peaceful demonstrations and to refrain from violence,” the joint communique read. 

They also reiterated the need for independent, swift, and transparent investigations into all cases of violence committed against peaceful protestors, emphasizing that justice and accountability are essential for healing. 

The warning from the international community comes in the wake of a disturbing protest on June 17, where videos surfaced showing armed goons attacking civilians and police officers using live ammunition. 

One particularly tragic incident involved a police officer shooting a mask vendor in the head in Nairobi’s Central Business District. The victim is currently hospitalized at Kenyatta National Hospital in critical condition. The two officers linked to the shooting have since been detained. 

This incident, widely shared on social media, has sparked national and international outrage, further intensifying pressure on the Kenyan government to ensure accountability and prevent repeat occurrences. 

In response to the escalating tensions, the US Embassy issued a security alert to American citizens, advising them to avoid the Nairobi CBD on protest days. The UK followed suit, condemning the violence and criticizing the Kenyan police for excessive use of force against unarmed civilians. 

Despite the growing condemnation, President William Ruto has thrown his full support behind the National Police Service (NPS), stating that the government will stand by law enforcement officers. 

“To every police officer, from the constable to the man on the beat, I give you my assurance that the government of Kenya will support and stand by you as you secure our nation and keep our families safe,” the President declared in a speech on Tuesday. 

His remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with critics warning that unchecked police backing could lead to more violence during Wednesday’s protests.