Kenya: NASA suspends protests October 17 /update 34

Event

On Tuesday, October 17, the opposition National Super Alliance (NASA) suspended its nationwide protests scheduled for this week against the Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The opposition stated that their decision to suspend the protests is in honor of those who died during the recent unrest. The NASA also stated that they will announce their upcoming plan of action on Friday, October 20. In the meantime, an opposition rally will take place in the Shauri Moyo district of the capital Nairobi on Wednesday. An increased security presence and related traffic disruptions along roads in the area - including Jogoo and Landhies roads - are likely.

Context

On October 17, a Kenyan tribunal temporarily lifted the government’s ban on protests in the Central Business Districts of Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, originally instated on October 12 due to security concerns. Supporters of the NASA opposition coalition held protests throughout the country on October 13 despite the ban; protesters clashed with police and erected barricades in Kisumu, Nairobi, and Mombasa (three killed).

These opposition-organized protests have been organized to demand electoral changes ahead of any future elections. Following the now-annulled August 8 presidential elections - in which sitting President Uhuru Kenyatta reportedly won 54 percent of the vote - opposition candidate Raila Odinga announced he would challenge the results before the Supreme Court. Violent protests broke out after the election in opposition strongholds on August 9; at least 35 people were killed in post-election violence August 9-14. On September 1, the Supreme Court released its final decision invalidating the August 8 presidential election due to irregularities.

Advice

Individuals in Kenya are advised to avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence and to monitor the situation. Be prepared to shelter in place in the event the security situation in the country deteriorates (stock up on food, water, and other necessities). Additionally, those undertaking long-distance travel within the country are advised to consider traveling via plane (rather than by road) to minimize exposure to security threats.