By Carole Gachacha
The Kenya Media Sector Working Group (KMSWG), a coalition of 26 media organizations, has called for urgent measures to protect journalists ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that increasing attacks against media personnel pose a serious threat to press freedom and democracy.
Addressing a press conference in Nairobi, the Secretary-General of the Kenya Union of Journalists, Erick Oduor, expressed concern over what he described as a growing pattern of intimidation, harassment, and violence targeting journalists while carrying out their duties. Oduor said the attacks reflect a blatant disregard for the rule of law and undermine the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and access to information.
Oduor said journalists continue to risk their lives to report on elections, governance, human rights, and other matters of public interest, yet many have been assaulted by both police officers and hired gangs. He added that several journalists are still recovering from injuries sustained while covering demonstrations, while others have had their equipment confiscated or destroyed by hostile mobs.
The Working Group accused security agencies of failing to adequately protect journalists despite repeated appeals. It also cited Kenya’s decline in the World Press Freedom Index as an indication of the deteriorating environment for media freedom.
The coalition called for immediate investigations into attacks on journalists and the prosecution of police officers and other individuals found responsible. It further urged the government to establish a clear framework for the protection of journalists, ensure injured media workers receive prompt medical treatment, and include affected journalists among those eligible for state compensation arising from recent protests.
Oduor said the coalition had previously held meetings with senior police commanders, who pledged to improve the safety of journalists but had failed to honour those commitments. He warned that the coalition would announce further action if its demands were not addressed.
The Working Group also appealed to media owners to improve the welfare of journalists by providing comprehensive medical insurance, protective gear, and fair remuneration. It proposed a minimum 12 percent salary increase, in line with the President’s directive.
The coalition urged political leaders to respect the independence of the media, stressing that journalists should never become collateral damage in political disputes. It also called on regional and international bodies to condemn attacks against journalists and support efforts to safeguard media freedom in Kenya.
The Kenya Media Sector Working Group said it has so far submitted the names of four affected journalists for compensation and encouraged other journalists injured while covering the Gen Z protests to come forward and register their claims.