Media Council condemns attack of journalists at Orange House
By evans.maritim, March 24, 2022
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the attack of two journalists at Orange House that happened on Thursday during a meeting hosted by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga.
In a statement, MCK Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Omwoyo said the attack on the two journalists were uncalled for and called on the ODM leader to disown the unfortunate incident.
“The Council is concerned at political party orchestrated violence against journalists and lack of investigations on such and is calling upon the Inspector General of Police Mr. Hillary Mutyambai to arrest the perpetrators,” Omwoyo said.
Journalists Moses Nyamori of The Standard and Luke Awich of The Star were allegedly attacked following recent stories they did about the ODM party officials.
“The two journalists were singled out days after stories published under their bylines on Thursday, 17th March 2022 attracted verbal attacks and threats from specific party officials who had been quoted in the story.
“Profiling of journalists by leaders and supporters of political parties goes against Articles 34 and 35 of the Constitution on freedom of media and access to information,” the MCK boss stated.
Omwoyo also called on the Independent Electoral Boundaries Commission (IEBC)and the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties to take stern action against parties and aspirants that condone all forms of violence and especially violence against the media.
“While the work of the media is subject to scrutiny and feedback, any complaints on the violation of the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya should be reported to the Media Complaints Commissions which is legally mandated to adjudicate on the same,” he added.