Gen Z demos: Western nations warn State on use of goons

By Newsflash Reporter

A coalition of ambassadors and high commissioners from 14 Western nations has issued a strongly worded joint statement urging the Kenyan government to protect the right to peaceful protest, ahead of the first anniversary of the 2024 Finance Bill demonstrations.

The commemoration is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 25 June, 2025.

The envoys—from Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Sweden, and Finland—highlighted concerns about rising threats to civic freedoms and called for restraint, transparency, and accountability in handling protests.

“June 25th marks one year since Kenyans voiced their concerns through widespread protests at the 2024 Finance Bill,” the statement reads. “We remember those who lost their lives and reaffirm every Kenyan’s right to peaceful assembly and to express themselves.”

Condemn violence and infiltration

The diplomats noted that as Kenyans prepare to mark the protests’ anniversary, authorities must ensure citizens can demonstrate freely and without fear.

“As citizens prepare to mark this anniversary, we call on all to facilitate peaceful demonstrations and to refrain from violence,” the statement says. “The use of plain clothed officers in unmarked vehicles erodes public trust and was ruled unlawful by the High Court. We urge full compliance with this ruling.”

They further raised the alarm over the reported infiltration of protests by hired agitators—referred to as “goons”—who disrupt peaceful gatherings, potentially leading to chaos and violence.

“We are troubled by the use of hired ‘goons’ to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings,” the envoys said. “Protecting the right to protest is vital to preserving civic space and a cornerstone of Kenya’s vibrant democracy.”

Call for independent investigations

In a continuation of previous calls made during 2024’s unrest, the diplomats emphasized the need for credible investigations into all incidents of violence against peaceful protesters.

“We renew our calls for swift, transparent, and independent investigations into all incidents of violence against peaceful protestors,” the statement notes. “Transparency and accountability are critical—not only for justice, but for restoring confidence in the institutions meant to serve and protect their citizens.”

The joint statement comes amid growing unease over Kenya’s handling of protests, especially following the deadly confrontations sparked by the controversial 2024 Finance Bill. Human rights organizations have accused security forces of using excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and harassment of activists and journalists.

Despite a High Court ruling that banned the use of unmarked vehicles and plainclothes officers to arrest protestors, such incidents have reportedly continued. The envoys’ statement serves as a stern reminder of Kenya’s international obligations and a warning that the world is watching.

The statement was signed by the embassies and high commissions of Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Sweden, and Finland.