Over a week has passed since six journalists were teargassed and assaulted by police in Nakuru, Kenya, while covering the arrest of former Kakamega senator Cleophas Malala on April 8. Despite public outcry and assurances of an investigation, no officers have been held accountable.
The incident occurred at Kirobon Girls’ High School, where more than 15 journalists were present for live broadcasts. A plain-clothed officer instructed them to leave, threatened them, and later returned with riot police, resulting in chaos. Tear gas was directed at the journalists while they tried to flee, leading to injuries among several of them.
National Police Service spokesperson Nyaga Muchiri has indicated that action would be taken against those involved. However, many journalists hesitated to file statements with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) due to previous frustrations.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about police impunity and the safety of journalists in Kenya, particularly in politically sensitive situations, despite constitutional protections for press freedom.
The African Freedom of Expression (AFEX) is concerned about the safety of Journalists, especially when no action has been taken against the perpetrators. AFEX urges the State authorities to ensure that justice is served in this matter.
