By Nyang’au Araka
Amnesty International Kenya has raised concern over what it describes as an increasing pattern of harassment, obstruction and physical attacks against journalists covering political and public events across the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the human rights organisation said several incidents reported between February and May 2026 point to a growing threat to media freedom ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Among the cases highlighted was the violent assault of journalists during a political rally in Trans Nzoia County, where reporters were allegedly beaten, their equipment damaged and footage forcibly deleted.
The organisation also cited incidents in Nairobi and Nyeri where journalists were reportedly threatened, blocked or ejected from political events despite identifying themselves as members of the press.
“Journalists covering political or public events have been harassed, obstructed, and physically attacked,” Amnesty Kenya said in the statement.
The rights group further noted that journalists had publicly complained of threats and denial of access during recent presidential functions, including the Naivasha Education Conference and the ongoing Africa Forward Summit.
According to Amnesty Kenya, the incidents reveal “a troubling pattern” where political gatherings are increasingly becoming unsafe spaces for journalists.
“Violent political supporters, private security officers, and even law enforcement officers appear to operate with impunity,” the statement said.
The organisation warned that attacks and intimidation against journalists create a chilling effect on the media and may push reporters towards self-censorship, in violation of constitutional protections on freedom of expression and media freedom.
“Journalists are not guests at political or public events. They are constitutional actors performing a public role central to democratic accountability,” Amnesty Kenya stated.
The statement also criticised the recent rejection by the National Assembly of a proposed Sh826 million plan meant to settle government debts owed to media houses, describing the move as a setback to the financial sustainability of the press.
Amnesty Kenya called on political leaders, the National Police Service and oversight agencies, including the Media Council of Kenya and Independent Policing Oversight Authority, to take urgent action to protect journalists and investigate reported violations.
“Failure to act decisively risks normalising attacks against journalists and eroding the foundation of democratic governance,” the organisation warned.
The statement was signed by Amnesty International Kenya Section Director Irungu Houghton.
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