The protests, which are held annually on August 8th, saw an escalation in tension between law enforcement and members of the press, raising concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Kenya.
Journalists present at the protests reported a series of aggressive actions by the police, who appeared to deliberately target media personnel.
The day began with journalists taking their positions in the CBD early in the morning, around 9 am, to cover the demonstrations. However, rather than ensuring their safety, police officers were seen plotting in low tones, eventually moving to attack the journalists.
Multiple reports confirmed that the police fired teargas canisters directly at media crews, aiming to disrupt their work and disperse them.
In some instances, the police resorted to physical violence, including kicking and beating journalists with wooden sticks.
A female journalist was one of the victims, suffering blows from the notorious long wooden sticks used by the police.
The situation escalated throughout the day, with police continuously targeting spaces occupied by journalists. Teargas canisters were repeatedly launched at their feet, interrupting live broadcasts and endangering their health and safety.
The most intense confrontation occurred shortly after 3 pm at the Kimathi Street junction. Here, a group of angry journalists confronted anti-riot police, questioning their motives and actions. The situation became volatile, with both sides exchanging verbal insults, followed by blows and kicks.
Among those affected was Citizen TV reporter Stephen Letoo, who found himself overwhelmed by teargas, leading to a brief loss of consciousness.
Fortunately, a fellow journalist was nearby to assist him. Another victim was a foreign journalist, who sustained injuries after being hit on the foot. The police did not stop there; they also targeted the team from CNN, directing teargas canisters at renowned journalist Larry Madowo and his crew.
Despite these attacks, the journalists remained resilient, continuing to document the events and demanding answers from the police.
The actions of the police have sparked outrage among the public and within the media community, with many questioning the apparent disregard for the rights and safety of journalists.
When asked about the repeated harassment of journalists during protests, Acting Police Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli failed to provide a satisfactory explanation.
He instead called on the police to collaborate more closely with journalists covering such events, a statement that many found inadequate given the severity of the incidents reported.
The attacks on journalists during the "Nane Nane" protests are part of a troubling trend in Kenya, where members of the press often face harassment and violence while doing their jobs.
This incident has once again highlighted the risks that journalists face in the country, particularly during politically charged events.
The media plays a critical role in keeping the public informed, especially during protests and other significant events. The attacks on journalists not only threaten their safety but also undermine the public’s right to know what is happening in their country.
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