Public Demonstrations in Kenya - Advice and Information

Summary: Kenya's constitutional referendum is due to be held on Wednesday, 4 August 2010. The expected public demonstrations surrounding the referendum could be dangerous for the public and travellers in the region.

Which areas are possible conflict hot spots?

Over the past few months threats have been issued to communities considered to be "outsiders". Eviction leaflets have also been sent to families in an attempt to drive people off the land. Some farmers have resorted to disposing of their livestock and crops in fear of violence erupting.

Travellers should be cautious in the following provinces where tensions are already rising between opposition groups:

• Rift Valley Province: Trans Nzoia, Wareng, Tinderet, Kericho, Eldoret, Nakuru, Kuresoi, Kapenguria, Chepareria, Narok, Turbo.
• Nyanza Province: Kisumu East, Kuria.
• Western Province: Mount Elgon.

Foreign Office advice for travellers:

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued a warning for travellers heading to or already in Kenya. Given the delicate political climate, it advises travellers to:

• Exercise caution around political rallies and public demonstrations, particularly those related to the referendum on 4 August 2010
• Keep an eye on local media reports for any information about upcoming demonstrations
• Contact the British High Commission in Nairobi for further assistance

What action is being taken to curb any possible violence?

The Kenyan National Cohesion & Integration Commission is monitoring the situation closely and has set up peace committees in potential hot spots. Together with the United Nations Development Programme, the National Committee on Peace-Building & Conflict Management, and the civil society organisation PeaceNet, it has formed the Uwiano coalition. The collaborative aim is to prevent violence during this period.

It has set up a SMS line as part of it's efforts - members of the public can send a text message to 6397 to report any security threats.

The government has also announced a 3-stage security plan in the Rift Valley which involves deploying an additional 15,000 police officers across select police stations.

More about post-election violence in Kenya:

Following post election violence in 2007/2008, Kenya is now set to vote on a new constitution. The last time Kenyans went to the polls, 1,500 people were left dead and at least 300,000 ended up homeless.

On 4 August 2010, eligible voters will be asked to answer the question "Do you approve of the proposed new Constitution?" The new draft constitution calls for less presidential power, a second house of parliament and more autonomy for the different counties. Although Kenya will still be ruled by an executive president, his decision-making powers will be constrained by a system of checks and balances.