Nairobi, Kenya – July 24, 2024 – In a growing climate of intimidation and violence against the media, Kenyan journalists and media houses have raised their voices in protest against what they describe as systematic harassment and censorship by the government. The latest incidents include the shooting of Kameme FM reporter, who sustained a thigh injury, and the abduction of journalist Gaitho.
The Kenya Editors Guild, led by President Zubeidah Koome Kananu, has strongly condemned these actions, urging the government to cease discrimination against private media outlets. Kananu emphasized the necessity for the Government Advertising Agency (GAA) to remain impartial in its dealings.
Journalists nationwide protests calls for press freedom, safety and security
The Nationmedia protest has articulated several urgent demands, highlighting the need for safety and security for journalists, as well as unrestricted access to information. The protesters are calling for the prosecution of police officers who have engaged in violent acts against journalists. This follows numerous reports of police using excessive force, including teargas, to suppress journalists performing their duties.
Among the grievances is the government’s withdrawal of advertisements from private media houses, a move seen as an attempt to financially strangle independent journalism. The Communications Authority of Kenya has also been accused of issuing threats to media entities, further stifling freedom of the press.
Kenya journalists under siege
The protestors demand an end to media censorship and the threats from the Communications Authority. They are calling for the immediate gazetting of all media complaints commissioners to ensure fair and transparent handling of grievances. Additionally, they demand the payment of monies owed to media houses and the cessation of using state advertisements as a tool to manipulate media coverage.
The demonstrators’ rallying cry, “#WeAreNotCriminals,” encapsulates their plea for recognition of journalists’ rights to operate without fear of violence or repression. They insist that the media should not be treated as adversaries, but as essential contributors to a democratic society.
Journalists demands scrapt of Government Advertising Agency
Moreover Journalists are demanding the resignation of Principal Secretary State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunication in the Ministry of ICT Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, accusing him of discriminating against private media houses by allocating advertisements exclusively to state media. This action has intensified calls for fair treatment and equal opportunities for all media outlets in Kenya.
As tensions rise, the Nationmedia protest underscores the critical need for the Kenyan government to respect and protect press freedom, ensuring that journalists can carry out their crucial role in society without undue interference or threat.