“Freedom of the Press at Risk.”

In democratic societies, a free press serves a cornerstone of accountability, transparency, and the public’s right to know. Yet, recent incidents in Kenya have highlighted a troubling trend: increasing aggression by police forces against journalists.

On Sunday, 1^st Of June 2025, which was a 62^nd Madaraka celebration day in Kenya which was held in Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay County.  Many journalists and media practitioners from various media houses attended to cover the state event. It is quite unfortunate that several incidents where journalists were subjected to physical and mental chaos were reported due to the police officers’ aggression and brutality.

Six journalists from Standard Media Group, Nation Media Group and royal media services were injured and had their valuables stolen after an altercation with goons. According to the Standard, the journalists who were injured were TV producers Steve Okedi and Marble Achieng from KTN and NTV, respectively, as well as journalist Ephantus Maina from Royal Media Services and NTV’s George Odiwuor.

 “They brawled us with ‘mavijiti na fimbo’ so that is what hit me on the hand and had a fracture as per the doctor’s word. I have received some first aid and some painkillers. The doctor has advised me to go for an X-ray…”  said Ephantus Maina, Cameraman, Citizen TV.

This is not the only incident where journalists have faced Police aggression; another incident was when the Citizen TV journalists, Marriane and the cameraman were live at Rongai, Nakuru covering up a story where police had blocked Cleophas Malala from overseeing controversial ‘Echoes Of War’ school play. During the coverage, police officers were throwing tear gas canisters towards the reporters causing chaos.

Also on 31^st May 2025, KTN journalists Rashid Edi and Okumu Madora were barred from covering a Kenya and Slovenia media briefing where the Kenyan president William Ruto and the visiting Slovenian president held a joint press event.

The Media Council of Kenya CEO, David Omwoyo, condemned the attacks on journalists using the quote, “…the four were reportedly assaulted by security officers at the entrance, …. despite displaying valid media identification badges. These incidents highlight a concerning trend of deliberate targeting of media professionals, undermining their vital role. Such actions violate ARTICLE 34 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees press freedom.”

The rise in police aggression toward journalists is not just an attack on individuals; it is an attack on the very foundations of democracy. Silencing journalists undermines public trust, obscures truth, and erodes accountability. To protect press freedom, government must uphold legal safeguards, enforce consequences for abuses, and ensure that law enforcement respects the essential role journalists play in a free society.

Ends..

By Obadia Machogu.

John

The author is an experienced radio journalist and media manager.