TRANS NZOIA, Kenya — The Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) has condemned a violent attack on two journalists assaulted while covering a United Democratic Alliance meeting in Cherangany, terming it a serious threat to press freedom and public accountability.
In a statement issued on Saturday, March 21, KEG President Zubeidah Kananu described the incident as a “brazen act of violence” against members of the press.
The journalists—Gilbert Sitati of Standard Group and George Njoroge of Mediamax Network Limited—were reportedly attacked on Friday while covering the political event linked to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
According to KEG, the two were targeted in connection with coverage of a controversial ambulance procurement deal allegedly linked to senior political figures.
Video clips circulating online show a confrontation escalating into a scuffle, with one journalist heard pleading with attackers. “Do not kill me. I am going to delete the footage. Why are you assaulting me?” he is heard saying before escaping.
Kananu said the assault underscores a worrying pattern of hostility towards journalists, particularly in politically charged environments.
“Such actions foster a climate of fear and self-censorship, ultimately weakening the media’s ability to serve the public interest,” she said. “This brazen act of violence is not only unacceptable but a direct affront to media freedom and the public’s right to information.”
KEG called on Douglas Kanja to launch immediate and transparent investigations, identify those responsible, and ensure swift prosecution.
The guild warned it would pursue legal action, including private prosecution, if authorities fail to act.
The organisation also urged political leaders and their supporters to guarantee the safety of journalists covering public events, warning against turning political gatherings into “zones of lawlessness.”
The incident raises fresh concerns over the safety of journalists in Kenya, despite constitutional protections under Article 34, which guarantees freedom and independence of the media.
Media stakeholders argue that attacks on journalists not only endanger individuals but also undermine democratic oversight and informed public discourse.
KEG expressed solidarity with the injured journalists and called on witnesses to come forward with information that could aid accountability.
The assault adds to a growing list of reported cases of harassment and violence against journalists, intensifying calls for stronger enforcement of laws protecting press freedom and stricter consequences for perpetrators.
