Outrage as Journalists Attacked During Madaraka Day Celebrations in Homa Bay
What was meant to be a day of national pride turned into a scene of violence and intimidation for members of the press. At least four journalists were assaulted and harassed by security personnel during the Madaraka Day celebrations held at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay on Sunday, sparking condemnation and raising serious questions about press freedom in Kenya.
Among those injured were KTN TV producer Steve Okedi, Nation Media Group (NMG) producer Mable Achieng’, and Royal Media Services journalist Ephantus Maina. NMG correspondent George Odiwuor also lost his phone and laptop in the chaos. The attacks occurred despite the journalists possessing valid accreditation to cover the event.
Maina and Achieng’ were treated at the scene by a Kenya Red Cross emergency team stationed at the venue. Achieng’ recounted arriving at the stadium by 5 a.m., in line with a prior media briefing directive, only to be assaulted by officers upon arrival.
“They kept pushing us and eventually started hitting us. That is how I got injured, alongside other residents,” she told Nairobian.
Okedi reported that security officers ignored his accreditation and shoved him away, injuring his leg. He was only allowed entry after the intervention of a senior officer.
The Kenya Journalists Network (KJN) has condemned the attacks as “a blatant violation of press freedom.” Speaking to Nairobian, KJN Interim Chairman Rushdie Oudia expressed outrage over what he described as “utter irresponsibility and brazenness” by the security officers.
“These incidents are not only shocking but amount to interference and suppression of the freedom of the press as enshrined in Articles 33 and 34 of the Kenyan Constitution,” said Oudia.
According to KJN, journalists with valid badges were denied access to the stadium and violently forced away from the main gate. The organization is now calling for a full investigation into the attacks and is urging the Office of the President, the Ministry of Interior, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to act swiftly.
“We must protect the dignity and freedom of journalists who are simply doing their work in service to the public,” Oudia added.
The incident has sparked online backlash, with citizens, civil society groups, and media stakeholders demanding accountability and guarantees for the safety of journalists at public events.
As the dust settles, the question remains: If journalists can be attacked while covering a national celebration, what does that say about the state of media freedom in Kenya?
In other news:Peter Salasya Explains Source of Funds for His Countrywide Tours
Outrage as Journalists Attacked During Madaraka Day Celebrations in Homa Bay