Ukraine Embassy in Kenya on Monday, May 1, warned its citizens ahead of Azimio's planned demonstration on Tuesday, May 2.
In a statement, Ukraine indicated that the anti-government protests would escalate into a confrontation between police and residents.
To protect its citizens, Ukraine advised them to keep off from some of the areas likely to experience the demonstrations.
Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) was listed among the areas residents were cautioned not to visit during the demos.
Others included Huruma, Kariobangi, Mathare, Mukuru kwa Ruben and other areas within Eastlands.
Ngong, Kangemi and Kawangware also featured in the list where Ukraine advised its citizens to keep off during the planned Azimio anti-government protests.
"The Embassy advises people to refrain from visiting the areas mentioned above until the situation stabilises," the notice read in part.
Further, Ukraine Embassy listed hotline numbers to enable its citizens to reach out for help in case of injuries or safety concerns.
The alert came even as Ukraine continues to battle with Russia following the forceful invasion that escalated into a cross-border conflict between the two countries.
Azimio, on Monday, May 1, insisted that the planned protests were still on in various parts of the country. Led by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the outfit faulted the police, insisting that outlawing the protests was unconstitutional.
"Unless Mr Ruto wants to suspend the Constitution and rule by decree, we will exercise our right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, as earlier announced, dark threats notwithstanding,” Raila was adamant, as seen in his statement dated Sunday, April 30.
However, President William Ruto talked tough, maintaining that his administration would protect property from destruction during the Azimio protests.
In response, Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli implored President Ruto to engage Raila to address the issue of the protests.
He further advised Ruto to assign Raila any role to keep him occupied, as his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta did.
“Raila Odinga did a lot for this country. He fought for the second liberation and the Constitution. For that, we recognise him as a national leader.
“We should find him a job even if it is similar to the one he held as the Head of Infrastructure for the African Union,” Atwoli stated.
