Judiciary condemns journalists harassment at Milimani courts

It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding media freedom and the rights of journalists.

In Summary
  • The Judiciary said it does not bar the media from covering cases in the courts unless otherwise directed. 
  • It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding media freedom, the rights of journalists and the rule of law.
Chief Justice Martha Koome on January 17, 2023.
Chief Justice Martha Koome on January 17, 2023.
Image: CJ/TWITTER

The Judiciary condemned the harassment of journalists by police officers at Milimani Courts on Friday. 

In a statement, Judiciary said it embraces transparency, civic participation and accountability in its work adding that the media's presence helps in achieving that.

"We condemn in the strongest terms any harassment of the media in their line of duty, anywhere and particularly within court precincts," the statement reads in part. 

The Judiciary said it does not bar the media from covering cases in the courts unless otherwise directed. 

It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding media freedom, the rights of journalists and the rule of law.

The press is protected by the Constitution, under Article 34 on the Freedom of the Media.

The Judiciary called on all persons to exhibit the highest standards of conduct in the courtrooms and within court precincts.

"The conduct of all justice actors must at all times promote and uphold the rule of law and build public confidence in the justice system," it said. 

The incident happened earlier on Friday when journalists who had gone to Milimani courts to cover the bail ruling of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino were roughed up by officers.

In a video seen by the Star, police are seen chasing journalists away.

A photojournalist is seen falling on the staircase after being pushed by police.

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