Nairobi, Kenya – As Kenya approaches the one-year anniversary of the youth-led protests that shook the nation in 2024, the United States has issued a strong public call for the protection of civil liberties and police accountabilityahead of planned memorial demonstrations on June 25.

In a meeting with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula on June 24, outgoing U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mark Dillard emphasized that Washington is closely monitoring the unfolding situation—particularly in light of the recent death of a blogger in police custody, which has intensified scrutiny of Kenya’s security forces.

“We expect commemorative events to remain peaceful,” Dillard said, “but it is equally critical that protesters be allowed to voice their grievances without fear of violence or repression.”

Speaker Wetang’ula echoed the call for calm and constitutional order, affirming that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, any outbreak of violence will be met with a firm and lawful response. He acknowledged the damage done by “rotten apples” within the police ranks and stressed the importance of restoring public trust through accountability and reform.

As thousands of Gen Z activists prepare to take to the streets in remembrance of over 60 lives lost during last year’s protests, the twin appeals—for restraint and respect for rights—from both U.S. and Kenyan leadership underscore the delicate balance between maintaining security and honoring the fundamental freedoms enshrined in the constitution.