A Nation in Crisis: The Troubling Targeting of Media in Kenya

 Recent events in Kenya have unveiled a disturbing trend: attacks and harassment targeting journalists. These incidents raise critical questions about press freedom, law enforcement practices, and the state of democracy in the country. This analysis explores the worrying developments and their broader implications.

A Crackdown on the Media?

Over the past few days, incidents involving members of Kenya’s press have sparked outrage. From the shooting of Kameme FM journalist Catherine Weri Karoki to the abduction of veteran journalist Francis Mashar G, a troubling pattern is emerging. These attacks seem more than coincidental, suggesting an intent to intimidate and silence the fourth estate.

In the case of Mashar G, the incident unfolded dramatically. Early in the morning, he was abducted by unidentified men who forcibly removed him from the premises of Karen Police Station, a place where one should feel safe. Despite Mashar G’s protests and his son documenting the ordeal, the men, who never identified themselves as police officers, bundled him into a vehicle. It later emerged that the abduction was a case of "mistaken identity"—the men were allegedly after a controversial blogger with a similar name. This "mistake" highlights alarming lapses in law enforcement processes and raises questions about the professionalism of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

Violations of Law and Due Process

Kenya’s 2010 Constitution guarantees fundamental rights, including protection against unlawful detention and abduction. Law enforcement officers are required to identify themselves and follow legal procedures during arrests. Yet, the masked and hooded men involved in these incidents acted more like criminal abductors than officers of the law. Their methods—including using excessive force, hiding their identities, and evading accountability—were blatant violations of legal and ethical standards.

Moreover, these incidents echo a broader issue: the misuse of power by some law enforcement agencies. If veteran journalists can face such mistreatment, what might be happening to ordinary Kenyans?

Police Brutality and its Implications

The targeting of journalists coincides with ongoing anti-government protests across the country. The demonstrations, fueled by grievances against the administration, have been met with heavy-handed tactics, including live ammunition against protesters. Such actions only exacerbate public discontent and erode trust in the government and law enforcement.

Ironically, police brutality undermines the very regime it seeks to protect. It attracts international condemnation and amplifies calls for accountability. In the case of media targeting, it sends a chilling message to journalists, discouraging them from reporting on critical issues.

A System Under Scrutiny

The actions of the DCI and other security agencies reflect a troubling lack of professionalism. Mistaking a respected journalist for a controversial blogger is not only careless but indicative of systemic dysfunction. This incompetence raises fears that other innocent Kenyans may have suffered—or even lost their lives—due to similar errors.

What Lies Ahead?

As Kenya grapples with these troubling developments, it is clear that urgent reforms are needed within law enforcement agencies. The targeting of journalists and protesters must end, and those responsible for abuses must be held accountable. The media, as the watchdog of democracy, plays a critical role in safeguarding the rights of citizens. Silencing it only weakens the foundations of governance.

A Call to Action

As Kenyans, we must demand adherence to the rule of law and protection of press freedom. These rights are enshrined in our Constitution and are non-negotiable. The attacks on the media are not just an attack on individuals—they are an attack on our democracy.