journalists from various media houses have today gathered in large numbers to protest against the escalating attacks on the media. Organized by the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) and other media advocacy groups, the journalists are protesting against a series of issues that have plagued the media industry, especially during the #RejectFinanceBill2024 demos.
There has been an alarming increase in the number of physical assaults and threats against journalists. Most of these attacks often go unpunished, creating a climate of fear and intimidation among media professionals as well as undermining the independence and integrity of the media. This month only, over three journalists have been attacked and branded unprintable accusations. For instance, Fatuma Hassan, A digital journalist with a leading news website, Hassan was harassed and physically attacked in July 2024 while covering a protest in Nairobi. Her attackers accused her of biased reporting and confiscated her phone and camera. The are several other journalist who have been attacked recently which calls for urgent action.
Also, the recent legislative proposals, such as the ICTA Bill 2024, have raised concerns among media practitioners about potential restrictions on freedom of expression and the right to access information. Journalists fear that such laws could be used to censor and control the media. And especially with the recent internet shutdown, media freedom in Kenya is at stake.
Demands of the Journalists
Journalists have outlined several key demands that they want addressed by the government and relevant stakeholders that include
- Investigating and prosecuting those responsible for media attacks.
- The journalists are also demanding for the independence of the media in Kenya.
- The ICTA Bill 2024 and other restrictive laws should be reviewed to ensure they do not infringe on press freedom. Journalists are calling for consultations with media stakeholders before any such laws are enacted.
- The journalists are asking the government and private sector to explore ways to support the media industry economically, ensuring that journalists have secure employment and fair remuneration.
Speaking on the ongoing protests, James Mwangi, a senior reporter with one of Kenya’s leading newspapers, spoke passionately about the need for a free and independent press. “A free press is the cornerstone of democracy. When journalists are attacked or silenced, the whole society suffers because the truth is suppressed,” he said.