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GENEVA, June  26, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - The United Nations said Thursday it was
"deeply concerned" by violence during protests in Kenya which left at least 16
dead and others with injuries, calling for calm and restraint.

Wednesday's rallies began peacefully but descended into chaos as young men
held running battles with police, lit fires and ripped up pavements to use as
projectiles.

The marches were called to mark the one-year anniversary of anti-tax
demonstrations which peaked when a huge crowd stormed parliament, and dozens
were killed by security forces.

"We are deeply concerned by reports of several deaths of protesters and
many more injuries -- of protesters and police officers -- during
demonstrations in Kenya on Wednesday," UN human rights office spokeswoman
Elizabeth Throssell said in a statement.

"We are concerned by reports that some protesters had gunshot wounds.
"Under international human rights law, lethal force by law enforcement
officers, such as firearms, should only be used when strictly necessary."

At least 16 people were killed and thousands of businesses ruined.
The UN rights office noted that Kenya's Independent Policing Oversight
Authority has announced it will launch investigations.

"We underscore the importance of prompt, thorough, independent and
transparent investigations to bring those responsible to justice... We also
reiterate calls for calm and restraint," said Throssell.

"The rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are cornerstones
of the rule of law and must be respected and upheld by all."