The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a statement addressing concerns raised regarding injuries sustained by journalists during Madaraka Day celebrations in Homa Bay County.
In a statement on Monday, June 2, the NPS expressed empathy for the affected journalists and emphasized that the injuries were not the result of deliberate targeting by police officers.
"There was significant pushing and shoving by groups of youths attempting to force entry into the stadium. This compelled security officers at the presidential entrance to act appropriately to prevent unlawful intrusion," the statement read.
NPS acknowledged that some journalists were hurt, but clarified that they were unintentionally caught up in the confusion.
“Unfortunately, some members of the press were caught in the ensuing melee, resulting in injuries to several journalists. The situation was brought under control, and journalists were subsequently able to enter the stadium," the statement added.
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Dismissing claims that the police intentionally targeted members of the media, the NPS reaffirmed its commitment to a constructive working relationship with the press.
"NPS reiterates that at no point were police officers targeting the media during this incident. We maintain that the media and the police share a symbiotic relationship, each fulfilling their professional roles," the statement concluded.
Earlier Monday, the Media Council of Kenya raised concerns regarding the attack, calling on the government to ensure journalists' safety during such events
"At Raila Odinga Stadium, Royal Media Services (RMS) journalist Ephantus Maina, Nation Media Group (NMG) producer Mable Achieng, TV47 camera operator Francis Kakai, and journalist Elizabeth Mutuku were reportedly assaulted by security officers at the entrance, despite displaying valid media identification badges.
"Some journalists required medical attention from Red Cross staff for various injuries. Additionally, several journalists lost equipment and personal items, such as phones and laptops, to opportunists during the event. Media personnel were forced to plead for entry to the stadium and were not guaranteed a safe exit after the event concluded," a report by MCK read in part.
