Media Council of Kenya condemns brutal assault on journalist exposing job fraud in Homa Bay
In a statement, MCK said the attack is not only an assault on an individual but also a grave threat to press freedom, journalistic integrity, and the rule of law in Kenya.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the assault on a journalist in Homa Bay by alleged county officials angered by an exposé he published on job scams.
In a statement, MCK said the attack is not only an assault on an individual but also a grave threat to press freedom, journalistic integrity, and the rule of law in Kenya.
More To Read
- MCK, IEBC sign MoU to strengthen media oversight ahead of 2027 General Election
- MCK slams attacks on LSK president Odhiambo as unfair and unfounded, urges media to exercise fairness
- IEBC proposes shared broadcast signal to restore trust in 2027 polls
- High Court stops swearing-in of Media Council board members appointed by CS Kabogo
- Kenya adopts new media code, ushering in stricter AI and child protection rules
- MCK cites The Eastleigh Voice's DRC reporting in push for unified EAC journalist accreditation system
"This incident signals a dangerous erosion of democratic norms, fostering fear over facts. The MCK condemns this act and calls on Kenyans, civil society, and global partners to denounce it," the council said.
The journalist, Habil Onyango, was brutally assaulted, abducted, and intimidated in Homa Bay on Sunday, September 14, in acts allegedly orchestrated by a Senior Human Resource Officer at the Homa Bay County Government. The official is reported to have targeted Mr Onyango for his investigative reporting on a fraudulent employment scandal.
"The journalist, namely Habil Onyango, was lured to a Homa Bay hotel, ambushed by thugs, and allegedly assaulted by the county official, causing facial injuries," said the media council.
Forced to inhale bhang
He was then forced to inhale bhang, abducted, driven around, and humiliated. Additionally, his devices were confiscated, data deleted, and a fake apology posted online to discredit him.
The attack was confirmed by a doctor at Homa Bay County Hospital, who noted soft tissue injuries and offered medication. Mr Onyango, however, declined treatment and seized a moment of distraction to escape via a passing boda boda.
"The incident, reported to Homa Bay Police Station (OB 25/14/25), involves serious crimes—assault, abduction, and property interference—that demand urgent action beyond a routine entry," MCK explained.
Fake job schemes
The exposé, published on a local news website, revealed how Homa Bay residents are being swindled through fake job schemes.
"Such thuggery in retaliation undermines truth and public accountability. Aggrieved parties should approach the Media Complaints Commission, not resort to violence," MCK implored, adding that journalists are protected under Article 33 of the Constitution, as well as international covenants such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights.
"We demand swift, transparent investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. The perpetrators, known to Mr Onyango, must face arrest and prosecution. We urge the National Police Service to recover Mr Onyango's devices and ensure his safety," MCK said.
The council reiterated its support for media freedom and journalists’ safety, stating that "no voice will be silenced, and the truth will always prevail."
Top Stories Today
