The United States Embassy in Kenya has issued a security alert warning its citizens to be cautious ahead of a planned protest expected to take place in Nairobi.
In a notice released on Tuesday, January 13, the embassy said it had received reports of a planned demonstration targeting U.S. interests.
The protest is said to be linked to recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela, which have attracted international attention and criticism in different parts of the world.
According to the advisory, the demonstration is expected to happen on Wednesday, January 14, near the U.S. Embassy in the Gigiri area. The embassy noted that information circulating on social media suggests protesters intend to gather close to its premises.
“There are reports on social media calling for a demonstration in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy on Wednesday, January 14, in protest of U.S. military action in Venezuela,” the embassy stated.
Before the alert was issued, there had been indications that political and activist groups such as the Communist Party of Kenya (CPK) and the Kenya Left Alliance had publicly called on young people to take part in demonstrations.
These groups reportedly urged Kenyans to show solidarity with the people of Venezuela following recent developments in that country.
Earlier in January, the United States carried out a military operation in Venezuela that led to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro.
On January 3, U.S. forces reportedly conducted a raid in Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, during which Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured. The two were later flown to the United States, where Maduro was presented before a federal court.
Following his arrest, Maduro pleaded not guilty to several serious charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy, drug trafficking, and illegal weapons possession. His detention sparked protests among Venezuelans living abroad, particularly in parts of the United States.
Kenyan activists now say they plan to join these global protests in solidarity with Venezuelans, with demonstrations expected to take place in Nairobi on Wednesday.
In response to the planned protest, the U.S. Embassy advised its citizens and residents in Kenya to remain alert and cautious.
The embassy encouraged people to closely follow local news for updates, avoid large gatherings and crowded areas, and maintain a low profile during this period.
U.S. citizens were also urged to stay aware of their surroundings at all times and to keep in regular contact with friends and family members for safety reasons.
Reports also indicate that Kenyan activists are linking the planned protests to wider regional issues. Some groups are said to be coordinating with human rights organisations focused on concerns about the militarisation of upcoming elections in Uganda scheduled for January 15.
These activists reportedly view the protests as part of a larger fight for African and global sovereignty.
The U.S. Embassy has in recent months continued to issue security advisories whenever protests or disruptions are expected in Kenya. These warnings are meant to help ensure the safety and security of U.S. citizens living in or visiting the country.
Join Kenya Youths Forum Official WhatsApp Channel
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
