The Law Society of Kenya has joined the media regulatory body Media Council of Kenya in an unending list of bodies that have condemned the attacks that have been meted out on journalists as they cover Azimio demonstrations which have been ongoing in the country.
LSK President Eric Theuri through his Twitter account, has termed the incident as “barbaric, repulsive and retrogressive” pointing fingers at Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome.
“It’s obvious media spotlight is preventing the police from using brutal force on protesters, hence intimidation of media. IG police should take responsibility. He has failed in his responsibility,” Theuri tweeted.
ALSO READ: Demonstrators Set Ablaze UDA Offices in Siaya
The Media Council on its part has condemned the brutal assault of journalists by the police as they covered Thursday’s mass demonstrations.
Through his tweeter account, the regulator CEO David Omwoyo tweeted that March 2023 will remain the darkest month for Kenyan media since the clamour for multiparty democracy following the vicious attack on members of the fourth estate.
Omwoyo stated that so far, the Council has documented 25 cases of police harassment, attacks and arrests against local and international journalists since the onset of the mass protests on March 20.
Omwoyo termed the incidents as acts of hooliganism and criminality whose interest is to destroy any evidence of police acts captured on camera.
According to MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire, six journalists suffered serious body injuries on Thursday.
Bwire noted that some of the journalists had their phones and equipment stolen or vandalised seemingly to destroy photographic evidence of police excesses during the protests.
The Council has however stated that it will take legal action against the National Police Service considering the attacks were deliberate.
The Police on their side have remained numb on the incident as of Friday morning and are yet to comment on the matter
The Council CEO has advised editors and reporters covering the assignment to remain vigilant and prioritise safety while in the field and to consider wearing appropriate safety gear for protection.
Discussion about this post