The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has strongly condemned the violent assault, abduction and harassment of two journalists in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, terming the incident a serious threat to press freedom in the country.

In a statement released on Sunday, the council said the attack targeted journalists George Njoroge of MediaMax Network Ltd and Gilbert Sitati of Kenya Television Network during coverage of an alleged corruption story involving a political figure.

“These acts constitute a direct violation of constitutional provisions and international principles on the protection and promotion of press freedom,” MCK stated.

Details of the attack

According to the council, the attack was carried out by known individuals following media coverage of the alleged corruption case. One of the journalists was reportedly assaulted after seeking safety at a police station, raising concerns over the level of protection offered to media practitioners.

MCK described the incident as part of a growing trend, warning that Kenyan journalists are increasingly facing threats, harassment and violence in the line of duty.

“This incident is not isolated. Kenyan journalists increasingly face threats, harassment, and violence,” the statement read.

Call for investigations and accountability

The council has called for urgent, thorough and impartial investigations into the incident, noting that video evidence exists and should be used to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

It further demanded that any police officers found to have failed in their duty to protect the journalists be brought to justice.

“Perpetrators must be held accountable and any officers complicit in the incident… must be brought to justice,” MCK said.

Allegations of abduction and threats

MCK revealed that George Njoroge was allegedly assaulted after sharing a screenshot of a news article on WhatsApp — an action it termed lawful. He was reportedly forcibly removed from a police station by individuals linked to a local leader and taken to Kitale Forest, where he faced death threats before being rescued after public attention.

The council termed the incident a grave institutional failure, particularly due to the presence of police officers during the alleged abduction.

Meanwhile, journalist Gilbert Sitati was assaulted while filming the incident, with the resulting footage now serving as key evidence.

“Documenting matters of public interest is a fundamental journalistic duty, yet he was punished for performing it,” the council noted.

Rising concern over press freedom

The council also cited further intimidation, including threats allegedly made against Njoroge at a police station, warning that the incident reflects a broader culture of impunity.