The African Union has appealed for calm and called for dialogue following opposition protests in Kenya that have turned violent and left three people dead since last week.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga called for demonstrations to protest against the high cost of living and what he calls electoral justice after last year’s election.
In a statement, AU Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat urged “stakeholders to exercise calm and engage in dialogue to address any differences”.
He said the conduct of elections last year was “successful” and the outcome confirmed by the Supreme Court. The Statement reads;
“The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki MAHAMAT, expresses deep concern at violence following public protests in Kenya since 21 March 2023, which has resulted in loss of life, damage to property and the interruption of certain economic activities in the capital, Nairobi.”
“The Chairperson urges all stakeholders to exercise calm and engage in dialogue to address any differences that may exist in the supreme interest of national unity and reconciliation.”
“In this regard, the Chairperson wishes to recall the successful conduct of General Elections in August 2022 in Kenya and the subsequent unanimous confirmation of the election outcome by the Supreme Court.”
“The Chairperson reiterates the total solidarity with and support to the Government and the People of Kenya’s efforts working towards national unity, peace and stability in the country.”
Kenyan religious leaders have also called for unconditional talks between President William Ruto and Mr Odinga.
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