US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a call with Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday, welcomed his efforts to calm deadly unrest but urged restraint and investigations into alleged abuses.
Blinken thanked President Ruto for reducing tensions and committing to engage in dialogue with protestors and civil society, said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.
Ruto announced Wednesday that he was withdrawing a bill containing tax hikes, which had sparked massive protests resulting in over 20 deaths and demonstrators ransacking parliament.
Blinken emphasized the importance of security forces showing restraint, avoiding violence, and encouraged prompt investigations into allegations of human rights abuses, according to Miller.
Blinken also offered US support as Kenyans work to address their economic challenges. Kenya, a key African partner, recently sent forces to Haiti to help stabilize the country, aligning with US goals.
