Kenya urged to respect human rights

Nairobi - Nine Western governments have welcomed proposed changes to Kenya's security laws, but said that they should respect human rights.

In a joint statement on Wednesday, nine ambassador's from countries including the United States, Germany and UK welcomed efforts by the government to revise and update the country's security legislation in light of a string of terrorist attacks the country has experienced in recent years.

Parliament, which is on a long holiday, will hold a special session on Thursday to debate the proposed changes in the law and enact them.

Human rights groups, media and the Kenya's main opposition coalition have opposed the changes to the security laws, saying they will curb fundamental freedoms enshrined in the Constitution.

President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged parliament to pass the laws.