Twelve Western embassies have jointly urged the Kenyan government to exercise restraint, uphold democratic rights, and avoid the use of violence and illegal tactics ahead of the planned June 25 protests.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, the envoys from countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and others warned against the use of hired goons, plain-clothed police, and unmarked vehicles to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings — practices that previously led to public outcry and were ruled unlawful by the High Court.

The statement comes a day before the anniversary of the 2024 #RejectFinanceBill protests, which turned deadly and left dozens dead and many more injured.

This year, youth-led movements are expected to return to the streets to voice anger over the rising cost of living and what they view as a betrayal of democratic principles. The diplomats acknowledged this growing tension, reminding the government of its duty to protect rather than provoke citizens.

“We remember those who lost their lives and reaffirm every Kenyan's right to peaceful assembly and to express themselves,” the statement read.

The embassies said they are deeply concerned about recent signs of escalating state response. “We are troubled by the use of hired ‘goons’ to infiltrate or disrupt peaceful gatherings,” they noted, describing such actions as threats to democratic space. The statement urged the authorities to respect the rule of law and comply with court rulings, especially on police conduct.

“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,” the diplomats added.

They also called for “swift, transparent, and independent investigations into all incidents of violence against peaceful protestors,” warning that accountability is essential in rebuilding confidence in state institutions.

“Accountability is not just about justice but also about restoring confidence in the institutions meant to serve and protect their citizens,” the statement said.

The statement follows renewed outrage over police conduct during recent protests, especially the June 17 incident where a police officer was caught on camera shooting a mask vendor in the head. The footage went viral and triggered a wave of public anger. The vendor is now fighting for his life at the Kenyatta National Hospital, and two officers involved have since been detained.

Amid growing unrest, the US issued a security alert to its citizens, advising them to avoid the Nairobi central business district.

The UK, in a separate reaction, condemned the June 17 violence, accusing Kenyan police of using excessive force.

Despite mounting concern, President William Ruto has publicly thrown his weight behind the police. In a speech on Tuesday, he praised law enforcement officers for their role in maintaining order.

“To every police officer, from the constable to the man on the beat, I give you my assurance that the government of Kenya will support and stand by you as you secure our nation and keep our families safe,” Ruto said.

Diplomatic watchers believe the envoys' statement is a direct signal to the government that the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The joint message underlines the pressure Kenya now faces to avoid a repeat of the deadly confrontations seen in 2024, and to ensure that security forces do not silence lawful protests with illegal means.