Kenya Faces Regional Repression Wave, US-UK-Germany Warn Ahead June 25 Protests

Kenya is facing increased repression amid planned protests commemorating the deadly 2024 anti-tax demonstrations, with at least 10 people killed in recent nationwide protests against President William Ruto's government. The government and police defend their actions as necessary to maintain order amid violence and alleged attempts to destabilize the state, while critics and human rights groups condemn the use of excessive force and call for accountability. The US has warned Kenya against police brutality ahead of the June 25 protests and emphasized the need to balance civil liberties with public safety. Meanwhile, a coalition of foreign diplomats from countries including the US, UK, and Germany condemned the use of armed goons and plainclothes officers during demonstrations, urging respect for peaceful protests and adherence to lawful conduct. Kenya has also issued safety advisories to its citizens abroad in Qatar, Israel, and Iran amid Middle East tensions, and the UK government warned its citizens against traveling to specific Kenyan border areas due to terrorism risks linked to Somali groups. These developments highlight ongoing concerns over security, governance, and human rights in Kenya, with calls for peaceful demonstrations and transparent investigations into past abuses.