Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has released an update to all international organizations in Kenya and heads of diplomatic missions regarding the demonstrations and related violence witnessed in several parts of the country on June 25.
In a statement released on June 26, Mudavadi expressed the Kenyan government's deep regret for the loss of life and injuries sustained by members of the public and law enforcement during the protests.
“The Ministry of Foreign and Affairs wishes to update all the diplomatic missions and all international organizations in Kenya on the demonstrations and related violence witnessed in several areas in Kenya on June 25,” the statement reads.
Mudavadi extended condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives and expressed empathised with protesters who were injured.
Mudavadi acknowledged the support they received from members of the diplomatic community for the right to peaceful assembly and demonstration.
He informed the diplomats that the country regrets that the protests were marred by incidents of violence, some of which targeted women, members of the public, and business owners.
"It is evident that at a certain point, the demonstration was co-opted by elements pursuing ulterior, self-serving agendas, thereby undermining the legitimacy of the initial cause," part of the statement reads.
Mudavadi said that given the geopolitical challenges and ongoing security concerns in Africa, Kenya has placed paramount importance on maintaining national security and stability.
He, however, praised police officers for their efforts, saying that their actions during the protest prevented further escalation.
"We commend our security forces for their professionalism and restraint in the face of extreme provocations. Their action prevented further escalation, and we appreciate their dedication to maintaining law and order under challenging circumstances," he added.
Mudavadi clarified that Article 33 grants freedom of expression, but it restricts the freedom of spreading propaganda for war, hate speech, incitement, or advocacy of hatred that may amount to ethnic incitement or incitements to cause harm.
He also noted that demonstration organizers have the responsibility to ensure demonstrations remain peaceful, adding that it remains unclear who organized these recent events and whether they fulfilled their legal obligations.
