By GPC News Desk
The Defenders Coalition has condemned the reported assault and arrest of Citizen TV journalist Ode Francis while covering demonstrations against rising fuel prices in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
In a statement, the human rights organisation called for investigations into the incident, urging authorities to ensure journalists can cover public demonstrations without intimidation or interference.
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The coalition expressed concern over the use of force against journalists performing their professional duties, saying documenting protests does not make reporters participants in the demonstrations.
“The act of documenting a demonstration does not make a journalist a participant in the protest,” the organisation said, adding that journalists should not face harassment, assault, intimidation or arbitrary arrest for reporting on matters of public interest.
The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of journalists covering demonstrations and the conduct of law enforcement officers during public protests.
The coalition said journalists play a critical role in democratic societies by informing the public, documenting events and holding those in power accountable.
It warned that attacks on media practitioners undermine democratic institutions and threaten the public’s right to access information.
The organisation cited Articles 33, 34 and 29 of the Constitution of Kenya, which protect freedom of expression, media independence, and the right to freedom and security of the person.
It said these constitutional guarantees bind all State agencies, including the National Police Service.
Within confines of the law
While acknowledging the police’s responsibility to maintain public order and protect life and property, the coalition insisted that such duties must be performed lawfully and proportionately.
“The policing of demonstrations must never be used to suppress independent journalism, conceal possible human rights violations or intimidate those holding public authorities accountable,” it said.
The organisation also warned that protecting journalists was particularly important as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, when independent reporting will be crucial to informed public participation, electoral credibility and accountability.
The coalition called on the National Police Service and Inspector-General of Police to publicly condemn the harassment of journalists and issue clear operational directives prohibiting the intimidation, assault and arbitrary arrest of media practitioners covering demonstrations and other public events.
It further urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the circumstances surrounding Francis Odee’s reported harassment and arrest.
The Government was also urged to take concrete measures to guarantee the safety of journalists and human rights defenders.
The coalition said journalists and human rights defenders faced related risks because they document abuses, expose violations and amplify the voices of affected communities.
“Press freedom is a constitutional obligation,” the organisation said, calling for transparent investigations and accountability for those found responsible.
It expressed solidarity with the journalist Citizen TV and other journalists working in challenging circumstances, urging State and non-State actors to respect media freedom.
The Defenders Coalition is a national human rights organisation incorporated in Kenya as a trust. It works to strengthen the capacity of human rights defenders and reduce their vulnerability through protection, capacity building and advocacy.
