NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 17 – The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called on the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Inspector General of Police to urgently investigate and prosecute those behind a growing wave of attacks against journalists.

📻 Breaking It Down

The council said at least 18 journalists and two drivers from different media houses had been assaulted and injured over the past two months, warning that the escalating attacks posed a serious threat to media freedom and democracy ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a statement issued on Monday, MCK said journalists had been subjected to physical assaults, destruction of equipment and online harassment by security agents, goons and political party supporters.

The council expressed concern over what it termed the lack of action by responsible authorities, saying failure to hold perpetrators accountable was creating a climate of impunity.

📌 What You Need to Know

“The Council is convinced that the continued attacks, intimidation and crimes against journalists, and the reluctance by the relevant investigating agencies to prosecute the perpetrators is the biggest threat to the country’s democracy and media freedom,” MCK said.

The council cited the latest incidents during Sunday’s Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay, where eight journalists and two drivers were allegedly attacked.

Among those injured were Francis Mwangi and Evans Okeyo of Mediamax Network, whose vehicle was also burnt.

Sammy Omingo and Rodgers Otiso of the Standard Group were physically assaulted, while Fred Ooko and Brian Ongoro of Associated Foreign Press were attacked and had their cameras destroyed.

KBC’s Ken Odiwuor-Mayienga was allegedly beaten and his equipment stolen, while Citizen TV journalist Kevin Fraji and his driver were assaulted and their vehicle destroyed.

MCK said the Homa Bay incidents were part of a wider pattern of attacks recorded in different parts of the country.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya