Article 34 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of media and press, providing for the independence of all media types. It explicitly states that the State shall not exercise control over or interfere with any person engaged in broadcasting or publication.

However, recent events directly contradict Article 34. Harassment of journalists performing their professional duties has become widespread. The State’s harassment, intimidation, threats, and unlawful arrests of journalists must end  immediately.

During recent anti-government demonstrations organised by Gen Z, several journalists were harassed, assaulted, and attacked while covering the protests. In other instances, journalists who exposed corruption and high-level scandals received death threats intended to silence quality journalism.

A free press serves as a crucial check on government power and amplifies the voices of marginalised people. For press freedom to flourish, government, civil society, and international organisations must collaborate to protect and champion the rights of a free press.

— Njoroge Njeri Nicholas is a communication and media student at Laikipia University