In light of recent events in Kenya, journalists have been working tirelessly to provide coverage of what many are calling an ongoing political revolution. Unfortunately, their dedication has also exposed them to increased risks of harassment, abduction and injuries.
Earlier today, veteran journalist and writer Macharia Gaitho was forcefully arrested At the Karen police station. According to his daughter Anita Gaitho, the father was safe “although he was roughed a bit”. A few hours later, Gaitho was freed on grounds of mistaken identity. According to the director of criminal investigations Mohamed Amin, Macharia Gaitho was mistaken for Francis Gaitho, who was being pursued by the DCI detectives.
Speaking to the press just after his release, Gaitho has noted that those who abducted him were criminals in police uniform. He has also refuted claims that his attempted abduction was a mistaken identity. He has noted that despite the act being an occupational hazard to him, it has caused great trauma to his family.
Amins’ sentiments have sparked varied reactions, especially among Kenyans on X. Majority have argued that Gaitho’s arrest had a lot to do with the article he put out yesterday, and less of the mistaken identity as argued by the DCI.
On the other hand, During Tuesday’s demonstrations in Nakuru, Kameme, and k24 reporter Catherine Wanjeri Kariuki was shot while covering the demonstrations. Wanjeri was shot in the thigh while standing at a local bank premises. She was later rushed to Valley Hospital by her colleagues where she’s still receiving treatment.
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The 2010 Constitution of Kenya, article 34, emphasizes on the importance of the freedom of the press. The Constitution further provides that the State shall not interfere with the functioning of the media or penalize members of the fourth estate for opinions expressed. However, cases of harassment against journalists have mounted amid a surge in police brutality cases especially during the recent anti-government protest in Kenya. This has left journalists in the country afraid of exercising their constitutional and occupational rights.