MCK Pressures Govt To Punish Individuals Who Attacked 3 Journalists

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) on Tuesday, September 19 strongly condemned the attack on journalists who were covering a security operation at an illegal alcohol brewing den in Matungulu, Machakos County on Monday, September 18.

In a statement, MCK revealed that the journalists, Mike Ndunda from Kamba TV, Athiani FM's Richard Muasya and Boniface Mutisya of Mutongoi TV had been invited to cover the raid conducted in the Katine area by the local Chief Francis Mulinge.

It was here that they were attacked by a group of unknown individuals as they recorded the operation. They sustained serious injuries with Ndunda bearing the brunt of the assault.

Consequently, they were rushed to Ruai Hospital, Tala branch for medical attention.

So far two suspects have been arrested by Machakos County police boss Patrick Lobolia and his team, in connection with the incident.

MCK cautioned Kenyans against targeting journalists who are fearlessly carrying out their duties of informing them of the evils that go on within the society of the country.

"We wish to remind members of the public that freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of a democratic society, and journalists play a crucial role in keeping the public informed by highlighting societal evils.

"It is essential that journalists can carry out their work without fear of violence or intimidation," stated MCK CEO, David Omwoyo in part.

The MCK boss further noted that attacks on journalists not only violate their basic human rights but also undermine the principles of free speech and open discourse that are vital for a healthy society.

"We call on all citizens to respect the essential work that journalists do and to support their right to report the news without fear of harm.

"We urge our law enforcement authorities to take swift and decisive action to investigate and prosecute those responsible for these attacks. Attacks on journalists are crimes that go against the journalists' rights and privileges protected by law under the Constitution and the Media Council Act of 2013," added Omwoyo.

According to MCK, protecting the safety and freedom of journalists is a shared responsibility, and Kenyans must all work together to ensure that members of the Fourth Estate can continue to do their vital work without fear of violence or reprisal.

The media regulator moved to stem further incidences of attacks on journalists by availing a channel in which they can voice their complaints regarding the day-to-day operations of journalists and media houses in the country.

"We encourage anyone aggrieved by the media to report any complaints to the Complaints Commission which is legally mandated to mediate on the same instead of taking the law into their own hands," the media regulator urged.

A rear view window damaged from an attack on an NTV vehicle in Ruiru on March 27, 2023. /NTV