America, United Kingdom condemn abductions, killing of protesters

By Philip Mwaniki, NAIROBI Kenya 

The United States of America, the United Kingdom and a host of other countries have condemned the abduction and killing of protesters in Kenya during the ongoing anti-Finance Bill protests that have been witnessed across the country.

In a joint statement, Ambassadors & High Commissioners from 13 countries expressed concern over the violence witnessed across the country and the resultant deaths.

"We are deeply concerned by the violence witnessed in many parts of the country during the recent protests, and are especially shocked by the scenes witnessed outside the Kenyan Parliament," reads the statement.

"We regret the tragic loss of life and injuries sustained including by the use of live fire.

Amnesty International reported that five people have been shot dead and 31 people injured. Amnesty revealed that 13 people were shot with live bullets, 4 with rubber bullets and 3 people hit with launcher canisters.

Calling themselves "friends and partners to Kenya", the ambassadors and High Commissioners said protesting is a constitutional right.

"We note that Kenya's constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest. All actors have the responsibility to respect, uphold, promote and fulfil the principles of democracy and the rule of law, particularly by ensuring a proportionate security response."

"We welcome the statement released by the Hon Chief Justice Martha Koome and are deeply concerned by allegations of abductions of protestors."

They also called for civic engagement by all Kenyans "in addressing issues of vital public concern.

"We call for restraint on all sides, and encourage all leaders to find peaceful solutions through constructive dialogue," reads the joint statement.

The ambassadors and High Commissioners are drawn from Canadian High Commission, the Royal Danish Embassy, Embassy of Finland, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Embassy of Ireland, Embassy of the Netherlands, Embassy of the Republic of Estonia, Embassy of Norway, Embassy of Sweden, Embassy of Romania, Embassy of Belgium, British High Commission and the Embassy of the United States of America.