The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the assault on journalists and the confiscation of media equipment during the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, calling for immediate action against those responsible.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the council described the attacks as a direct assault on press freedom and the public’s constitutional right to access information.

“The Media Council of Kenya strongly condemns the assault on journalists and confiscation of media equipment by armed people during the Ol Kalou constituency by-election,” MCK said.

The council urged police and other relevant authorities to end attacks on media workers and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

“These continued attacks and impunity against journalists must come to an end, and the perpetrators must be held legally accountable.”

MCK raises concerns over press freedom

The council said it views the incidents as more than isolated violations of press freedom, arguing that they appear to be deliberate attempts to intimidate journalists carrying out their professional duties.

“The Council views these continued attacks as more than isolated press freedom violations, but deliberately orchestrated security actions aimed at intimidating media workers into censorship and fear, thereby denying the public their right to accountable and peaceful electoral participation,” the statement said.

According to MCK, several accredited journalists were physically attacked and had their equipment confiscated while lawfully covering events during the parliamentary by-election.

Among those affected was Star photojournalist Enos Teche, who was reportedly assaulted while documenting a confrontation involving residents and occupants of three vehicles outside Ol Kalou Comprehensive School.

The council reiterated that journalists must be allowed to carry out their duties freely and safely, especially during electoral processes, without fear of intimidation, harassment or violence.