The increasing attacks on journalists in the course of duty threaten to hamper the dissemination of vital information.
There is public outrage over the assault of reporters covering an opposition political rally in Homa Bay County at the weekend. Journalists’ motor vehicles were pelted with stones, seriously injuring some of them. The goons snatched phones, cameras and other equipment. Youths had barricaded the main roads with stones and lit fires.
There is growing concern over the safety of journalists in the run-up to next year’s General Election. The Kenya Editors’ Guild has denounced the attacks as an attempt to intimidate the media using violence. The attackers are violating the constitutional right of journalists to collect information for the public good. The Editors’ Guild has called upon the Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja to ensure that the incidents are thoroughly investigated and the culprits arrested and prosecuted.
This comes just a month after journalists covering the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election were attacked and their equipment seized by apparently well-connected goons. No one has been arrested. Human rights groups have also condemned the attacks on journalists. These attacks threaten public safety and the free flow of information. When reporters face violence, society loses its right to know the truth. Protecting the media ensures that communities stay informed and leaders are accountable.
The work of journalists is to gather information to expose corruption and hold the leadership in check. Media coverage gives a voice to marginalised communities. Regular scrutiny ensures that public officials and even private institutions remain answerable to the citizens they are supposed to serve.
Journalists scrutinise the use of public resources, exposing corruption and holding government officials and institutions accountable. This oversight empowers citizens to participate effectively in governance and public affairs.
The frequent cases of journalists being assaulted at political rallies must be curbed.
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