In the midst of a recent surge in political violence in Kenya, the United States issued a warning to its citizens about the dangers of traveling to the troubled East African country. Since President Mwai Kibaki's controversial re-election on December 27, 850 people have been killed in political and ethnic violence in Kenya. The killing of an opposition lawmaker on Thursday led to further protests and deadly clashes. The State Department cautioned that the situation in Kenya is unstable and can change suddenly, noting that some U.S. officials had been relocated from Kisumu to Nairobi. The State Department also highlighted recent protests in Nairobi and violent unrest in Kisumu, Nakuru, and Naivasha as examples of the potential for spontaneous violence in the current political environment. The warning advised American citizens to refrain from traveling to certain cities and areas outside Nairobi. It also cautioned them to be ready for potential clashes between police and demonstrators or rival groups, even during peaceful protests. The alert emphasized the importance of avoiding demonstrations, protests, and large public gatherings to ensure safety.