"Restrict Non-Essential Movement" Indian Embassy In Kenya Issues Advisory Asking Indian Citizens To Stay Safe (X image@BradleyCarl256)
Indian Embassy in Kenya issued an advisory asking Indian citizens in the country to exercise utmost caution during the ongoing unrest. Taking to its X (formerly twitter), Indian Embassy caution Indians to avoid the areas affected by protests and violence until the situation calms down.
The Embassy issued advisory in the wake of violent confrontations between protesters and police forces in various cities across Kenya, including the capital, Nairobi. It further added that, “Please follow local news and Mission’s website and social media handles for updates.”
Please follow local news and Mission’s website and social media handles for updates.
Nairobi, Kenya
June 25, 2024— India in Kenya (@IndiainKenya) June 25, 2024
The unrest erupted following the Kenyan parliament’s approval of a contentious finance bill that introduces tax increases, further exacerbating the nation’s already dire cost-of-living crisis.
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Eyewitnesses said that security forces resorted to using tear gas, water cannons, and firing shots above the heads of protesters in an attempt to disperse the crowds. The demonstrators hurled stones at the police as a response.
The riot police formed a perimeter around the parliament building and the State House as the Parliamentary debate on the tax bill unfolded. However, the bill was ultimately passed, and the parliament subsequently adjourned, even as protesters assembled outside the building.
The protest portrays the increasing discontent among the Kenyans, who are not only opposed to the tax hikes but also demanding the resignation of President William Ruto. The country is currently struggling with grave economic crisis, and the new tax measures have further fueled public anger and frustration.
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Ruto addressed the nation with a message of sadness and strength. He said that “legitimate” protests against his policies had been “hijacked by a group of organised criminals,” he warned his government would use all means at its disposal to prevent a repeat of the violence – “at whatever cost”.
Ruto’s message was seemed as an attempt to seize back control after days of street protests which have grown in strength and number. On Tuesday, they escalated with at least five people shot dead and hundreds injured.
