Nairobi:Journalists in Kenya are experiencing increasing threats and intimidation, along with economic challenges, as the 2027 General Election approaches. This situation has led to urgent calls for legal reforms, enhanced protection mechanisms, and accountability for those responsible for attacks on media workers.
According to Kenya News Agency, these concerns were highlighted during a national dialogue organized by the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) in Nairobi, marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. Under the theme ‘Enhancing Journalists’ Safety and Protection Mechanisms ahead of the 2027 General Election,’ the forum gathered government representatives, media stakeholders, and human rights defenders to address threats to press freedom and journalist safety.
David Omwoyo, Chief Executive Officer of MCK, emphasized that verbal attacks and threats from those in power contribute to a hostile environment, emboldening others to target media professionals. He stressed the importance of holding leaders accountable for such conduct to prevent physical attacks and uphold press freedom. Omwoyo warned against undermining the media’s role, noting that a weakened press could lead to misinformation and disinformation.
Rebecca Mutiso, MCK Manager for Press Freedom and Advocacy, revealed that 47 cases of threats and attacks against media workers were documented between July and September 2026. The incidents involved assaults, threats, arrests, intimidation, abduction, harassment, and surveillance, with police officers and political goons identified as main perpetrators.
Temesi Mukani, Secretary of Information and Broadcasting, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom, urging media players to leverage emerging policy frameworks like the Access to Information Policy. However, stakeholders noted that outdated laws continue to undermine media freedom and access to information, calling for a review of at least 21 restrictive statutes.
Lea Simonini, a consultant representing UNESCO, highlighted the global concern of impunity for crimes against journalists, with emerging technologies exacerbating disinformation risks. She also noted the vulnerability of women journalists to online harassment.
The forum also addressed journalists’ economic and mental well-being, citing a survey that found low earnings and high prevalence of depressive symptoms among journalists. Kenya Editors Guild President, Zubeidah Kananu, called for improved working conditions, emphasizing the need for financial and institutional support for journalists.
MCK Board Member, Tabitha Mutemi, stressed the importance of journalists’ safety for democratic governance and electoral integrity. She advocated for a national review of protection mechanisms to address threats, including digital insecurity and Gender-Based Violence.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions pledged continued action against those attacking journalists, with Senior Deputy Director Jacinta Nyamosi highlighting recent prosecutions and the sentencing of individuals for assaulting a journalist.
The forum concluded with a call for coordinated efforts by government agencies, media owners, security institutions, and the judiciary to end impunity and protect press freedom as the 2027 elections approach.
