• MOA says such acts are “unacceptable” and a “grave violation” of press freedom.
• The owners urged individuals or entities dissatisfied with media coverage to seek recourse through established channels such as the Media Council of Kenya.
Image: HANDOUT
The Media Owners Association has added its voice to the “alarming” attacks on journalists covering the Gen Z protests and political gatherings.
The association, in a statement on Thursday, expressed concerns over the cases of violence against journalists.
“We are deeply concerned by the incidents of violence, intimidation, and obstruction of media professionals as they carry out their rightful duty to report on these significant public events,” the statement reads.
It has cited the attempted abduction of Macharia Gaitho, the shooting of MediaMax journalist Catherine Wanjeri and the harassment of CNN photojournalist Fabien Muhire.
MOA said such acts are “unacceptable” and a “grave violation” of press freedom.
The association urged individuals or entities dissatisfied with media coverage to seek recourse through established channels such as the Media Council of Kenya.
“Targeting journalists or media houses directly is not the answer and will not be tolerated,” the statement reads.
The association called for thorough investigations into the attacks on journalists, bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure their safety and security at all times.
“Journalism is not a crime. Journalists play a critical role in informing the public, amplifying diverse voices and holding institutions accountable. Their safety and ability to report without hindrance are essential for a vibrant democracy,” it states.
Gaitho was allegedly abducted on Wednesday morning at Karen police station and released later in what police said was a case of "mistaken identity".
He is said to have been trailed by a Subaru from his home in Karen.
"We are sorry to Gaitho. It was a case of mistaken identity," DCI boss Mohamed Amin said.
Amin said they were looking for social media user Francis Gaitho.
The incident came a day after Wanjeri was shot in Nakuru during protests.
The Media Council of Kenya has also condemned the shooting of the reporter, terming it shameful and terrifying.
MCK chief executive officer David Omwoyo asked the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to expedite investigations and bring the officers involved to justice.
The Kenya Editors Guild has warned of street protests if no action is taken against individuals who abducted Gaitho.
KEG president Zubeida Kananu has issued a seven-day notice to the police.
“We will have no option but to go to the streets because it appears that is the language the government understands best. What are they hiding? If things happen how they should, why fear?” she posed.
Kananu vowed that KEG will not allow the government to intimidate the media.
“The last time, they said if you publish certain things they would not advertise with us. It is intimidation all through. When you highlight what is happening, you get threats. We have a right as a media to highlight the ongoing in the country,” she said.