UN Secretary-General Expresses Deep Concern Over Violence in Kenya Protests
The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Kenya linked to ongoing protests and street demonstrations. In a statement released by his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, the Secretary-General highlighted his sadness over the reported deaths and injuries resulting from the unrest, which include journalists and medical personnel among the victims.
Guterres statement comes amid increasing reports of violence and arbitrary detentions in Kenya as citizens take to the streets. These protests, which have drawn widespread attention both locally and internationally, have seen significant clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement agencies. The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of upholding the right to peaceful demonstration and urged Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint.
“The Secretary-General underscores the need to uphold the right to demonstrate peacefully,” Dujarric stated. “He urges the Kenyan authorities to exercise restraint and calls for all demonstrations to take place peacefully.”
In addition to the immediate call for calm, the Secretary-General extended his condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the violence. The statement underscored the Secretary-General’s commitment to the protection of human rights and the importance of dialogue and peaceful resolution in times of civil unrest.
The situation in Kenya remains tense, with various human rights organizations also voicing their concerns over the treatment of protesters and the reported instances of arbitrary detentions. The Secretary-General’s statement serves as a critical reminder of the international community’s watchful eye on Kenya’s adherence to democratic principles and human rights during this turbulent period.
As the country navigates this challenging time, the call for peace and restraint from one of the world’s leading diplomatic voices highlights the urgent need for a resolution that respects the rights and safety of all Kenyans.
