Safety and Security for Journalists Urgent Need for Reform

From the onset of the anti-Finance Bill, 2024, protests, attacks and harassment of journalists became a significant concern in Kenya. There has been intentional oppression of the media by the government following coverage of sensitive matters which are against the will of the government. These incidents have raised concerns about press freedom and safety in Kenya.  

However, this matter has not come without a price. Over the years, numerous journalists have been subjected to violence, intimidation and even imprisonment, especially when investigating corruption or challenging political elites.

This year alone and in the past year, several journalists have been attacked while covering protests, commonly known as maandamano. Others have faced online harassment and threats aimed at silencing critical reporting. Notable cases such as the shooting of Catherine Wanjeri from K24 and the ongoing intimidation of investigative reporters underscore the dangerous climate faced by those in the media profession. Professional bodies like the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) and the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) have ramped up efforts to provide support including legal aid and safety training.

International watchdogs, including Reporters Without Borders, have also condemned the threats to press freedom and called for greater protection for journalists. While the government has occasionally condemned violence against journalists, critics argue that law enforcement and judicial systems often fail to investigate or prosecute perpetrators of such crimes. Catherine Wanjeri is one among the many journalists who victim of police brutality serving as a stark reminder of the need for more robust protective measures for journalist.

 It is imperative that both the government and civil society work together to ensure a safer environment for journalists to report the truth without fear of retribution.