Kenya Protests: Indian Government Issues Warning to Citizens

Amidst the ongoing violent protests, the Indian government has issued a warning to its citizens in Kenya to be very cautious. They have been advised to avoid protest areas and stay updated on the situation. Indians in Kenya, including businesspeople, emigrants, and students, are encouraged to register with the Indian High Commission for better communication and assistance if needed. About 20,000 Indians are residing in Kenya. The advisory also recommends that Indians register with the High Commission in Nairobi. This will help in communication and assistance if needed.

What is happening in Kenya?

The African country has been blanketed by violent protests since last week. The demonstrations, led by opposition leader and Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, have involved clashes between activists and police, resulting in deaths and injuries. The unrest is driven by accusations of electoral fraud and economic issues, including high taxes and inflation.

On Tuesday, part of Kenya’s parliament building was set on fire by thousands of protesters opposing a new finance bill. Legislators fled the scene during this most significant attack on the government in decades. Journalists reported seeing at least three bodies outside the building where police had opened fire, and medical workers confirmed five other deaths. The violence also spread to other cities.

Odinga and his supporters are demanding electoral reforms and an audit of the 2022 election results, which named William Ruto as president. The police have responded forcefully, using tear gas and live bullets, and making numerous arrests. Human rights organizations like Human Rights Watch have condemned the excessive force and lack of investigation into police abuses.