Stop rising media attacks
The increasing attacks on journalists in the line of duty are alarming and could just get worse in the run-up to next year’s General Election.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK), which documented 47 cases of violations against journalists between July and September, has expressed concern over the apparent assault on media freedom, which is a constitutional right.
The 13 cases in Nairobi are the highest countrywide, followed by Homa Bay County, which recorded eight incidents. Among other counties, Meru reported seven, Bungoma six, and Nyandarua four such violations. The surge in the physical attacks, arrests, intimidation, and harassment of media practitioners threatens to hamper the key role of information gathering and dissemination.
The MCK’s report points to a sharp rise from the 17 cases reported last year to 24 in 2024. The commemoration on Monday of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists was an opportunity to reflect on the dangers journalists are facing.
In July, journalists covering the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election were violently attacked and robbed of their equipment by armed masked men as the police just watched. The presence of the security officers did not guarantee the protection of people carrying out their legal duties.
Journalists cannot safely act as the public's eyes and ears if they are constantly facing physical assaults, harassment, or intimidation. Protecting media freedom is not just about defending a constitutional right, but also about safeguarding the transparency that enhances the democratic process.
The increasing frequency of the attacks on journalists is a direct threat to democracy, especially as the country prepares for next year’s elections. Besides the physical attacks, there is also online harassment and arbitrary arrests. There is a need to pursue legal action and hold the culprits accountable. This also calls for reforms and stronger legal protections.
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