US Issues Security Alert To Its Citizens Ahead Of Nationwide Vigils By Azimio: "Have Evacuation Plans"

• The US Embassy warned the nationwide vigils called by Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party could quickly turn violent
• US called on its citizens to stay vigilant of their surroundings and have an evacuation plan in case the situation escalates
• Azimio called on their supporters to participate in the exercise that would involve prayers, candle lighting, and laying of wreaths

Nairobi - The US Embassy in Kenya has issued a security alert to its citizens in Kenya ahead of nationwide vigils in honour of protesters killed during demonstrations.

Azimio calls for a nationwide vigil

In a statement on Monday, July 24, Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party urged Kenyans to wake up early to participate in the exercise.

The exercise, which also involves prayers, candle lighting, and laying of wreaths, is aimed at standing in solidarity with the remembrance of lives lost at the hands of the police during the anti-government protests.

"We wish to appeal that the exercise kicks off at 6am with the lighting of candles and laying of flowers - any kind of flowers - at convenient, convergence points including hospitals, parks, bus stages, churches, markets, shopping centers, social halls, county assemblies and county headquarters," the coalition said.

US warns Americans

Ahead of the event, the US warned its citizens that large public gatherings could turn violent without notice.

The embassy warned US nationals to be vigilant of their surroundings, adding that the vigils will likely disrupt traffic.

"Kenyan opposition leaders have called for solidarity parades and public vigils nationwide in lieu of a previously announced protest for July 26. Organizers have stated that the events are intended to be peaceful. However, large public gatherings can turn violent at any moment. It is recommended to remain vigilant and aware of circumstances and avoid large gatherings. Traffic disruptions are expected," read the statement.

Azimio condemns police brutality

Earlier, TUKO.co.ke reported that Azimio leaders suspended anti-government protests slated for today, Wednesday, July 26.

In a statement released on Monday, July 24, the opposition leaders said they would not go to the streets as planned but will instead hold solidarity parades and vigils for victims of police brutality across the country.

The opposition outfit claimed the police had killed at least 50 people since the protests, aimed at compelling the government to lower the cost of living and address other pressing issues such as taxation and electoral injustices, began.