The US government has defended its decision to issue a security alert to its citizens in Kenya against visiting Kisumu during elections.
The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi said alerts of this nature to American citizens are common ahead of elections throughout the world.
"The United States has no information to suggest the security situation in Kisumu, or in any other parts of Kenya, have been adversely affected by election preparations," Embassy spokesperson said in a statement on Wednesday.
The advisory issued on Tuesday raised concerns that the US could have had intelligence of an impending security threat in the lakeside city.
But the Embassy said it bears greater responsibility over the safety and security of U.S. citizens and such alerts, including on extreme weather, are common place to ensure its citizens have information that helps inform travel plans.
The embassy noted that Kisumu hosts a significant number of U.S. Embassy personnel and is a frequent travel destination for American citizens.
In its advisory on Tuesday, the US advised its citizens against travelling to Kisumu over fears of election related protests.
Kisumu has been the epicenter of chaotic demonstrations in previous elections.
"Demonstrations may occasionally be violent, requiring police intervention. Strikes and other protest activities related to economic conditions occur regularly," US State department said in a statement.
It urged US citizens to monitor local media for updates, to avoid crowds and demonstrations as well as be aware of their surroundings.
Kisumu governor Anyang Nyong'o, however, dismissed the statement saying the county is safe for anyone visiting during the electioneering period.
"I want to assure those travelling to Kisumu that our people are very peaceful and looking forward to welcoming you. Enjoy our beautiful sunset City," Nyong'o said in a tweet on Wednesday.
