Editors condemn attacks on journalists in Majengo

The Kenya Editors’ Guild (KEG) has condemned police officers for assaulting journalists covering protests in Majengo on Wednesday.

In a statement, KEG President Zubeidah Kananu called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to issue a public apology for the attacks and take action against the officers involved.

“We strongly condemn this assault and demand that the Inspector General of Police: Take immediate action, including the arrest of the officers responsible. Those who attack unarmed journalists and obstruct their work must be held accountable.”

“Compensate the affected journalists for the destruction of their equipment. Issue a public apology for these attacks, which have no place in a democratic society,” the statement read in part.  

The Guild’s president said the victims included an NTV cameraperson, a reporter, a Nation photographer, and a journalist from The Star, who were assaulted while covering the shooting of a 17-year-old student who later succumbed to his injuries.

The National Police Service (NPS) also condemned the harassment of journalists and assured the public that investigations were underway.

“As a service, we are gravely concerned and strongly condemn such misconduct. Firm and decisive action will be taken against any officer found to have engaged in wrongdoing,” NPS said in a statement.