Kenya Accuses US, UK & 10 Western Countries Of Humiliating Them On Protest Remarks

The Kenyan government has released a sharply worded diplomatic note responding to a social media statement issued by ambassadors and high commissioners from a group of Western nations ahead of the June 25 demonstrations.

In an official communication to the embassies and high commissions of Denmark, Finland, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, the U.S., Canada, Australia, and the UK, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, led by Prime Cabinet Secretary (CS) Musalia Mudavadi, defended the country’s policing system. 

It reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to upholding constitutional rights while warning foreign missions against making “overly prescriptive” statements.

"Kenya remains a willing partner in the global democratic project but cautions against expressions that are overly prescriptive and insensitive to the complex national and global environment in which all our states operate, and in particular the perilous challenges that democracies face," the statement read in part.

The diplomatic pushback came hours before the anniversary of last year’s nationwide anti-tax protests, which are expected to spark fresh demonstrations.

While the Ministry acknowledged that concerns about policing had been raised, it maintained that any alleged misconduct is addressed by Kenya’s independent bodies, including Parliament, the Judiciary, and various oversight agencies.

Though it did not call out specific diplomats, the Ministry criticised the joint statement posted on X, calling it overly simplistic and dismissive of Kenya’s “complex national and global context.” The response also signalled growing frustration within the government over what it perceives as ongoing foreign interference in internal matters.

"At times such as these, narratives purveyed as truth must be vigilantly tested for objectivity and fairness lest they serve to perpetuate political polarisation and harm the social fabric. The Ministry reminds all that Diplomatic partnerships flourish best in mutual respect, open channels, and a recognition of each other's unique governance contexts and challenges in line with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations," added the statement.

The note concludes with Kenya reaffirming its commitment to working with international partners, while making it clear that this cooperation won’t come at the cost of its sovereignty or national stability.

"The Ministry acknowledges concerns raised about certain policing methods and wishes to assure our partners that any violations, if established, are addressed through our institutions, including independent commissions, Parliament, and the Judiciary," added the statement.

On Tuesday, June 25, the 12 diplomats of the Western nations warned against the deployment of hired goons and masked police officers during demonstrations, further expressing support for the upcoming protests, which are being held in memory of those who died during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill demonstrations.

They also pointed to the most recent protests on June 17, which were marred by violence after armed goons—caught on camera—were seen attacking both civilians and protesters in Nairobi’s Central Business District.

“We are troubled by the use of hired 'goons' to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings. Protecting the right to protest is vital to preserving civic space and a cornerstone of Kenya's vibrant democracy,” the statement reads in part.