• The attack is believed to be retaliation for Onyango’s recent exposé published on westerninsight.co.ke, which revealed a fake job recruitment scheme targeting vulnerable residents in the region.

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has issued a strong condemnation following the abduction and assault of investigative journalist Habil Onyango in Homa Bay, calling for immediate legal action against the perpetrators and warning of a dangerous erosion of press freedom.

Onyango, a credentialed journalist (MCK011319), was reportedly attacked on September 14 while investigating a fraudulent employment scheme allegedly orchestrated within the Homa Bay County Government.

According to MCK’s statement, Onyango was lured to a local hotel by a senior HR officer, where he was physically assaulted, forced to inhale an unknown substance, and abducted. His phone and laptop were confiscated, and a fabricated apology was posted on his social media accounts under duress.

The journalist later escaped on a bodaboda motorcycle and sought medical attention at Homa Bay County Hospital, where soft tissue injuries were confirmed. A police report was filed under OB 25/14/25 at Homa Bay Police Station.

The attack is believed to be retaliation for Onyango’s recent exposé published on westerninsight.co.ke, which revealed a fake job recruitment scheme targeting vulnerable residents in the region.

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“This is not just an attack on one journalist—it is an assault on the very foundation of our democracy,” MCK stated. “No voice will be silenced, and the truth will always prevail.”

MCK has called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to launch immediate investigations. The Council also demanded the recovery of Onyango’s confiscated devices and the prosecution of those responsible.

Citing Article 34 of the Constitution and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, MCK emphasized that freedom of the press is non-negotiable and must be protected at all costs.

The Council further urged civil society organizations, media stakeholders, and international partners to denounce the attack and stand in solidarity with journalists facing intimidation.

As the country grapples with rising threats to media independence, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by journalists committed to exposing corruption and holding power to account.

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