The US Embassy in Kenya has firmly rejected efforts to silence and censor journalists.

In a message shared by Marc Dillard, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi on Saturday, May 3, 2025, he insisted that the embassy was keen on promoting free press.

While joining the world in celebrating World Press Freedom Day, Dillard noted free press not only promotes democracy but also holds to account those in power.

However, he indicated that most people in power feel uncomfortable once exposed by the media, compelling them to contemplate imposing gagging orders.

Dillard, who assumed the role of managing the embassy following the departure of Ambassador Meg Whitman, nonetheless asserted that the media should be allowed to operate and tell the truth boldly.

“By asking tough questions and holding those in power accountable, journalists play a vital part in protecting democracy,” Dillard stated.

“Sometimes the media’s work makes officials, including me, uncomfortable. But even then, I know that their work is invaluable. And this World Press Freedom Day, as journalists face censorship and threats, the US Embassy celebrates the values of a free press that tells the truth boldly,” he added.

We oppose efforts to silence or censor journalists. pic.twitter.com/IvpBBG1eex

— Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard (@USAmbKenya) May 3, 2025

World Press Freedom Day

World Press Freedom Day (WPFD), observed annually, marks the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration.

It provides a crucial platform for media practitioners to celebrate the core principles of press freedom, assess the global state of media independence, advocate for the protection of journalists and honour those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of truth.

It also highlights the risks journalists face and the need to ensure their safety so they can continue to provide the public with essential information.

Threats to media freedom in Kenya

In Kenya, the World Press Freedom Day kicked off on a bad foot after it emerged that four filmmakers were apprehended. Initial reports linked them to BBC‘s Blood Parliament documentary, which the British Broadcasting House denied.

The four, Nicholas Wambugu, Brian Adagala, Mark Denver Karubiu, and Christopher Wamae, had been arrested at their studio in Karen, Nairobi, and their equipment confiscated by the police.

They were, however, released on Saturday, May 3, 2025, following uproar online.

Other media houses in the country have also lamented over plans to gag them for exposing various ills in the government. Various attacks by police officers have also been exposed in recent times, sparking concerns over the safety of journalists.

Despite the pressure, media practitioners have remained firm and continued to disseminate information.