MCK calls for action after 24 documented reports of police brutality against journalists

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo has revealed that there have been 24 reported cases of police brutality against journalists during the recent anti-government demonstrations.

Speaking in Naivasha during a Media Stakeholders roundtable, Omwoyo disclosed that these incidents have been documented while relevant authorities continue to gather evidence to pursue prosecution of the identified officers.

“We have 24 cases, we haven’t seen any prosecution as yet. Investigations are either ongoing or evidence gathering,” he stated.

He criticised the deteriorating relationship between the media and the government, urging the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA), the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the Inspector General of Police to expedite investigations.

“We need to strengthen government-media relations, enhance the safety of journalists, and ensure justice for those attacked recently,” Omwoyo added.

Head of Content at Radio Africa Group Paul Ilado, echoed the call for faster investigations, highlighting that the recent protests have exposed clear violations of press freedom, with media personnel being physically attacked in front of cameras.

“It is evident that there is a need to find a solution to this problem. Journalists have a responsibility, but so do the police. We need to find a middle ground. Journalists should report incidents to the police and follow up to enable prosecution,” Ilado said.

Financial challenges

Ilado also addressed financial constraints facing media houses, which have led to closures, delayed salaries, and layoffs.

He stressed the need for sustainable solutions to these financial challenges and urged the government to support local media against the competition from Big Tech companies that undermine advertising revenue.

Demas Kiprono, Chairperson of the Media Complaints Commission, emphasised the importance of recognising and protecting journalists who are performing their duties.

Journalists protest against police brutality on July 24, 2024, in Nairobi CBD. (Photo: Handout)

“Media freedom is enshrined in Article 34 of Kenya’s constitution and should be upheld,” Kiprono asserted.

During the Nane Nane (August 8) protests, police brutality became a major issue as officers clashed with protesters, engaging in arbitrary arrests, detentions, and the excessive use of force.

The aggressive behaviour extended to peaceful protesters and journalists, including international press members.

CNN journalist Larry Madowo took to social media to describe how police threw stun grenades towards journalists, including himself, to prevent them from covering the events.

Citizen TV’s Stephen Letoo also condemned the police actions, noting that several journalists were injured and highlighting that police fired live ammunition at protesters and journalists during the protests.

Cecilia Ngunjiri, a journalist from Real Stories Media said she was covering the protests near the Kenya National Archive when the police targeted her and her team.

According to Ngunjiri, the police initially warned that no one should be present before launching tear gas at the journalists.

Assault

Amidst the tear gas, she was overwhelmed and subsequently assaulted by police officers armed with clubs. Ngunjiri suffered bruises and required medical attention before being discharged.

"I did not provoke the police in any way," she said.

Another journalist mentioned that the police at the Dedan Kimathi monument were particularly notorious for their aggression.

Lucky Oluoch from Mediamax Network reported that police had thrown a tear gas canister at his feet.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has condemned the actions noting that they are not only unacceptable but also a direct violation of the rights enshrined in the Constitution.

"The right to peaceful assembly, the freedom of expression, and the protection of journalists are fundamental pillars of our democracy, pillars that we have fought long and hard to establish and must continue to protect," Raila said.

"I want to make it clear that I stand with the people in their quest for justice, freedom, and the full realisation of their rights. I strongly condemn the actions taken by the police and call upon the relevant authorities to respect the constitutional rights of all Kenyans. I also urge the immediate release of those who were unjustly detained and a thorough investigation into the misconduct of the officers involved."