The United Nations said Thursday it was "deeply concerned" by violence during protests in Kenya, whichkilled at least 16 and left thousands of businesses ruined. The demonstrations, marking on Wednesday the anniversary of last years deadly anti-tax rallies, spiraled into chaos as protesters battled police in the streets.

TheUnited Nationssaid Thursday it was "deeply concerned" by violence during protests inKenyawhich left at least 16 dead and others with injuries, calling for calm and restraint.

Wednesday's rallies began peacefully but descended into chaos as young men held running battles with police, lit fires and ripped up pavements to use as projectiles.

Read moreKenya protests marking anniversary of anti-government demonstrations turn deadly

The marches were called to mark the one-year anniversary of anti-tax demonstrations which peaked when a huge crowd stormed parliament, and dozens were killed by security forces.

"We are deeply concerned by reports of several deaths of protesters and many more injuries of protesters and police officers during demonstrations in Kenya on Wednesday," UNhuman rightsoffice spokeswoman Elizabeth Throssell said in a statement.

"We are concerned by reports that some protesters had gunshot wounds.

"Under international human rights law, lethal force by law enforcement officers, such as firearms, should only be used when strictly necessary."

At least 16 people were killed and thousands of businesses ruined.

The UN rights office noted that Kenya's Independent Policing Oversight Authority has announced it will launch investigations.

"We underscore the importance of prompt, thorough, independent and transparent investigations to bring those responsible to justice... We also reiterate calls for calm and restraint," said Throssell.

"The rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression are cornerstones of therule of lawand must be respected and upheld by all."

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)

Originally published on France24