By Nyang’au Araka
The East African Press Councils (EAPC) has called for urgent de-escalation of growing tensions between governments and media organisations across the region, warning that intimidation and attacks on journalists threaten press freedom and the public’s right to information.
In a statement issued on Sunday, EAPC expressed concern over what it described as increasing hostility, public intimidation and profiling of journalists by state actors, saying the trend is creating fear among media practitioners and encouraging self-censorship.
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“The heightened public intimidation and profiling of the media and journalists by those wielding state power is creating fear among journalists while promoting self-censorship in the media,” the regional body said.
It added that such actions violate constitutional, regional and international human rights obligations, including the right to access information.
The council urged all parties to resolve disputes through dialogue and restraint, warning that continued attacks on press freedom could reverse gains made in strengthening independent and accountable media across East Africa.
“Continued attacks on press freedom—including assaults on journalists, intimidation of media practitioners and forced closures of media enterprises—erode the gains made in nurturing a free, responsible and accountable media,” the statement said.
EAPC noted that journalists have a professional obligation to report on matters of public interest, even when such reporting may be uncomfortable for those in positions of authority.
The body urged public officials with grievances against media coverage to use established complaint mechanisms rather than resorting to actions that endanger journalists.
The regional media watchdog highlighted recent developments in Uganda, where Nation Media Group outlets including The Monitor, NTV Uganda, Spark TV and KFM were reportedly ordered shut down by the government.
According to EAPC, the order is in the public domain and the media houses’ premises are currently under military control.
In Kenya, the council pointed to an ongoing public dispute involving President William Ruto and the Standard Group, as well as allegations of the abduction of an editor linked to the media house.
EAPC noted that both Nation Media Group and Standard Group have publicly defended themselves amid the escalating exchanges.
The council emphasized the important role of the media in democratic societies, particularly in informing citizens about issues affecting their lives.
It noted that while freedom of expression carries responsibilities and legal limitations, constitutions across the region also guarantee access to information, especially on matters of national importance.
EAPC Chairperson David Omwoyo called for a balanced approach that protects journalists while promoting responsible journalism.
“We call for respect and upholding of media freedom and protection from any form of harassment and intimidation on one hand and on the other urge the media to practice restraint and responsibility in its public watchdog role,” said Omwoyo.
The East African Press Councils brings together media regulatory agencies from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo to promote harmonised media regulation and safeguard free, independent and professional journalism across the region.
