On March 5, four journalists were attacked by police in Nairobi while covering demonstrations. RSF condemned the violence and urges police accountability. Incidents of aggression against journalists during protests have raised serious press freedom concerns in Kenya, with a history of similar occurrences.
On March 5, four journalists were violently attacked or obstructed by Kenyan police while reporting on demonstrations in Majengo, a region in eastern Nairobi. This unrest was sparked by the death of a 17-year-old during a police operation. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has condemned these actions and urges police accountability for those responsible.
As the journalists were concluding their coverage and preparing to return to their office, they witnessed police assaulting Justine Ondieki, a photojournalist from Eastleigh Voice. NTV camerawoman Leah Wambui Kurema attempted to document the assault but was forcibly removed from her vehicle by police, who assaulted her and demanded that she erase her footage.
Dennis Onsongo, another photojournalist from NTV, was slapped by police while trying to assist Kurema. Meanwhile, Enos Teche from The Star was blocked from capturing photos of the incident. Police spokesman Muchiri Nyaga condemned the attacks and committed to identifying the involved officers for accountability.
RSF highlighted that these violent incidents against journalists are part of a broader pattern of safety concerns for media professionals in Kenya. Ondieki, after being severely beaten, spent five hours in police custody, with his camera damaged and its contents erased, leading to his hospitalization.
This incident is not isolated. RSF previously reported several cases of police violence against journalists during protests in Kenya, including instances where officers used rubber bullets and tear gas against reporters. The organization continues to call for thorough investigations and appropriate actions against such acts of violence.
The violent attacks against journalists during protests in Kenya highlight the significant risks faced by media professionals in the country. RSF’s condemnation of these incidents and the call for police accountability reflect ongoing concerns about press freedom. The commitment from police authorities to investigate and discipline those responsible is crucial for enhancing the safety of journalists moving forward.
Original Source: rsf.org
