The Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) has strongly condemned the assault of journalists by police officers during the violent clashes in Majengo, Nairobi, following the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Ibrahim Ramadhan Chege.
The teenager was gunned down by police shortly after leaving a mosque where he had attended Tuesday evening prayers. Authorities claim he was suspected of carrying a bag of bhang and was shot after an alleged altercation when his friends tried to prevent his arrest.
As journalists documented the unfolding events, several members of the press were attacked by police, KEG President Zubeidah Kananu revealed in a statement. Among those assaulted were an NTV cameraperson, an NTV reporter, a Nation Media Group photographer, and a journalist from The Star.
“Police officers—seemingly uncomfortable with media scrutiny—resorted to violence, using batons, kicks, and slaps against the journalists,” Kananu said. “NTV cameraperson Wambui Kurema was even pursued into her car, where officers forcibly deleted her footage. Nation photographer Denis Onsongo was also beaten as he attempted to assist his colleague.”
KEG has demanded that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja take swift action to identify and prosecute the officers responsible for the assault. The guild is also calling for compensation for the journalists whose equipment was damaged and a formal apology from the National Police Service (NPS).
“These attacks come at a time when journalists are still recovering from last year’s brutal crackdown during the Gen Z-led protests against the Finance Bill 2024. Despite numerous cases being reported, no significant action has been taken,” Kananu noted.
She warned that the repeated targeting of journalists points to a growing threat to press freedom in Kenya and urged authorities to act decisively.
The National Police Service has since issued a statement acknowledging the incident and promising investigations.
“NPS maintains a cordial relationship with the media and remains committed to safeguarding press freedom and journalist protection, in line with constitutional and international standards,” NPS Spokesperson Michiri Nyaga stated.
He assured that “firm and decisive action will be taken against any officer found guilty of misconduct.”
The incident adds to mounting concerns over the safety of journalists in Kenya, with calls growing louder for accountability and stronger measures to protect press freedom.
