Security at the Kenyan Embassy in Uganda heightened

Summary

• Following protests in Nairobi against tax hikes, Kenyan demonstrators attacked Uganda House, prompting increased security at the Kenya High Commission in Uganda. Consular authorities have advised nationals to avoid protests, despite no reported threats at the High Commission.

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Security measures have been increased at the Kenya High Commission in Uganda following an attack by Kenyan protesters on Uganda House in Nairobi. Protesters vandalized and set part of the building on fire during demonstrations against tax hikes. Although there have been no reported threats at the High Commission, authorities are taking precautionary steps. In Nairobi, protesters also targeted other government buildings.

Uganda’s foreign ministry confirmed no fatalities and condemned the violence. Consular authorities, including the US, French, and UK embassies, have advised nationals to avoid demonstrations. Despite this, Kenyan protesters remain determined to continue their opposition against the government’s proposed tax increases.

The CDF, who also serves as Chairman of the Interagency Security Committee (ISC), issued the directive on Tuesday evening upon learning about the assault on the Ugandan High Commission in Nairobi.

The ISC comprises top security officials, including the CDF, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Commissioner General of Prisons (CGP), Directors General of Internal Security Organisation (ISO) and External Security Organisation (ESO), as well as key personnel from the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), Uganda Police Force (UPF), and intelligence agencies.

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On Tuesday, videos and photos circulated on the internet, showing the building on Kenyatta Avenue burning as Kenyan security forces battled angry protesters.

The Ugandan High Commission had an office on one of the floors, while the lower ground floors housed a shopping centre.

Reports indicate that when the attackers struck, a contractor was on the premises making final touches to the building, which was undergoing renovations ahead of its commissioning.

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