The Media Council of Kenya has called on security agencies to bolster protection of journalists in Kenya.
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Mr Victor Bwire said journalists and other media workers must be protected from threats, violence and assault of any form.
“The investigative and prosecution agencies must scale up efforts to end impunity against journalists. All crimes against journalists must be properly and effectively investigated and perpetrators brought to justice”, said Mr Bwire when he led a response team from the Media Council to follow up on a case where NTV journalist Zacchaeus Mwasame was attacked and seriously injured while covering a match between Kakamega Homeboyz and Bandari FC at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega on November 7.
The MCK team met Kakamega Central OCPD Mr David Kabena who condemned hooliganism at sporting activities. He assured the Council of speedy investigations into the matter and administration of justice within the confines of the law. “I reiterate that all journalists deserve protection while undertaking their constitutional mandate”, he said.
The team comprising MCK’s Manager for Press Freedom, Safety and Advocacy Ms Dinnah Ondari and MCK’s Kisumu Regional Coordinator Mr Teddy Oundo visited Mwasame at his home where they assured him of the Council’s support.
Earlier in the week, the Council called for expeditious investigations, arrest and prosecution of football fans who attacked and seriously injured the NTV journalist. The Council also urged the public to refrain from threatening and obstructing journalists from undertaking their lawful roles.