NAIROBI, Kenya — The Foreign Press Association, Africa (FPAA) has strongly condemned the actions of Kenya’s security forces during the recent protests in Nairobi, citing the use of excessive force against journalists as a grave violation of human rights and press freedom.
In a statement released today, the FPAA highlighted the disturbing incident involving Collins Olunga, a photojournalist for Agence France-Presse (AFP).
During the anti-finance bill protests on Tuesday, Olunga was reportedly targeted and injured by police despite clearly identifying himself as a journalist.
He was struck by a tear gas canister at close range, resulting in a severe hand injury that required minor surgery.
Although he has been discharged and is recovering, the attack is seen as part of a troubling trend of hostility towards the media in Kenya.
“The FPAA unequivocally condemns the alarming and reprehensible actions of Kenya’s security forces,” the statement read. “Such blatant use of excessive force, particularly against journalists, represents a grave violation of fundamental human rights and press freedom.”
The FPAA noted that this incident is not isolated, with multiple international media personnel reporting damaged equipment and harassment by police during the same protests.
These actions, the FPAA emphasized, are not only attacks on individuals but also assaults on the principles of free speech and the free press.
The FPAA has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into these incidents by the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA).
The association urged the Kenyan government to hold the responsible officers accountable and to implement measures to prevent such abuses in the future.
The Media Council of Kenya has also condemned these actions, urging the police to respect journalists’ rights and enable them to carry out their duties without fear of violence or retribution.
“The FPAA stands in solidarity with Collins Olunga and all journalists who courageously continue to report the truth under dangerous conditions,” the statement continued. “We affirm our commitment to defending press freedom and protecting journalists from any form of harassment or violence. The Kenyan authorities must recognize that a free and independent press is crucial for democracy and should act to safeguard it, rather than suppress it.”
Additionally, the FPAA has urged the international community to closely monitor the situation in Kenya and to support efforts to uphold human rights and press freedoms.
