Kenya Editors Guild condemns police assault on journalists covering Majengo clashes

The Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) has condemned an assault on journalists while covering the deadly confrontation between law enforcement officers and residents of Majengo that escalated overnight and through much of Wednesday.

The confrontation ensued after 17-year-old Ibrahim Ramadhan Chege was shot by officers just after leaving the mosque where he had gone for Tuesday evening prayers.

Police claim Ibrahim was suspected of carrying a bag of bhang and was shot in an altercation after his friends tried to stop his arrest.

KEG President Zubeidah Kananu, in a statement issued on Wednesday evening, revealed that an NTV cameraperson, reporter, Nation photographer and The Star reporter were reportedly assaulted by officers during the ensuing chaos.

“As journalists interviewed residents to piece together what had transpired, police officers—seemingly uncomfortable with the media presence—attacked them with batons, kicks, and slaps,” Kananu noted.

“They even pursued NTV cameraperson Wambui Kurema into her car, where she had sought refuge, and forcibly deleted her footage. In the ensuing struggle, Nation photographer Denis Onsongo was beaten as he attempted to assist his colleague.”

She added: “Despite numerous engagements with authorities to foster an appreciation for journalists' work, the police continue to either disregard their role or deliberately target, injure, and intimidate them. This latest attack is further evidence of the shrinking space for media freedom in Kenya.”

Kananu went ahead to urge Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to facilitate the arrest of the officers involved in the assault against the journalists.

The KEG President further wants the affected journalists compensated for the destruction of their equipment, and a formal apology issued by the National Police Service (NPS) over the attacks.

“These incidents occur at a time when journalists are still recovering from the trauma of last year’s assaults during the Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill 2024. Despite numerous cases being recorded and reported to the police, no meaningful action has been taken,” added Kananu.

“The continued targeting of journalists is unacceptable. We call on the relevant authorities to act swiftly to protect press freedom in Kenya.”

NPS has also since issued its own statement, condemning the attacks while also noting that the circumstances are presently under investigation.

“The National Police Service maintains a cordial relationship with the media and is committed to safeguarding and promoting media freedom, as well as protecting journalists in Kenya, in line with the Constitution and international standards,” NPS Spokesperson Michiri Nyaga stated.

“NPS wishes to reassure the public that firm and decisive action will be taken against any officer found to have engaged in misconduct.“