NAIROBI – The Commonwealth has urged calm and restraint in Kenya following violent protests on Wednesday that marked one year since the deadly anti-finance bill demonstrations of June 25, 2024.
In a statement issued Thursday, Commonwealth Secretary General Shirley Botchwey expressed concern over the unrest, calling for respect of constitutional rights and rule of law amid mounting grief and renewed public anger.
“My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives and with all Kenyans,” Botchwey said. “I implore all actors to uphold the rule of law and exercise their rights within constitutional limits.”
This week’s demonstrations turned chaotic in Nairobi and other major towns. Human rights groups reported at least 16 deaths. Witness accounts and video footage showed heavily armed police engaging with demonstrators, sparking renewed criticism over the government’s handling of protests.
The Secretary General emphasized the importance of democratic norms, calling on demonstrators, law enforcement, and political leaders to approach the situation with “restraint, dignity, and mutual respect.”
She reaffirmed the Commonwealth’s core values: peace, democracy, and freedom of expression. “The Commonwealth reiterates the importance of peace, democracy, the rule of law and the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” Botchwey said.
Concerns over press freedom also featured prominently in her statement. Several journalists were reportedly harassed or blocked from covering Wednesday’s protests. Botchwey warned against targeting the media, stating, “A free and responsible media plays a vital role in strengthening democracy and ensuring accountability.”
Her statement follows a wave of online outrage and civil society condemnation over the force used against largely youthful crowds, many of whom gathered to commemorate victims of last year’s crackdown. On June 25, 2024, police opened fire on protesters who had stormed Parliament in opposition to the Finance Bill. At least 60 people were killed, most under age 30.
Wednesday’s demonstrations were planned as a day of remembrance. Protesters carried placards with victims’ names and marched through central Nairobi calling for justice, accountability, and repeal of what they call oppressive economic policies.
In cities like Kisumu and Mombasa, similar gatherings were dispersed by police using tear gas and rubber bullets. Several advocacy groups have condemned the state’s approach and are calling for an independent inquiry.
Botchwey acknowledged the emotional weight of the day, saying, “This moment carries deep meaning for many Kenyans.” She also reminded authorities that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and called for dialogue over confrontation.
She described Kenya as a “valued member of the Commonwealth family” and reaffirmed support for efforts that uphold justice and responsive governance. “The Commonwealth stands ready to continue supporting Kenya’s democratic resilience and pursuit of lasting peace,” she said.
As investigations continue and pressure mounts on the government to explain the security response, civil rights groups have vowed to document all violations and demand accountability through legal channels.
The government has not released an official statement addressing the protest deaths. Independent monitors and advocacy organizations are calling for an open, transparent review of both the conduct of security forces and the treatment of demonstrators and journalists.
