By Ernest Bandi
Several journalists were assaulted and injured by security officers during the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations held at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, sparking outrage and condemnation from the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).
The incident occurred at the entrance of the stadium, where journalists had gathered early in the morning to cover the national event. Despite having valid media accreditation, the reporters were manhandled by officers, with some also losing personal belongings, including mobile phones and equipment, to suspected theft in the chaos.
Among those injured in the incident were KTN producer Steve Okedi, Royal Media Services journalist Ephantus Maina, Nation Media Group producer Mable Achieng’, and TV47 camera operator Francis Kakai. Achieng’ and Maina received emergency medical attention from Kenya Red Cross personnel stationed at the venue.
Recounting the ordeal, Achieng’ said she arrived at the stadium by 5:00 a.m. as instructed during an earlier briefing by the regional commissioner, yet was still subjected to violent treatment.
“They kept pushing us and eventually started hitting us—and that is how I got injured,” she said.
In a strongly worded statement, the Media Council of Kenya condemned the attacks, calling the incident a “gross violation of press freedom” and a direct threat to the safety and independence of journalists in Kenya.
“At Raila Odinga Stadium, Royal Media Service journalist Ephantus Maina, Nation Media Group 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,” said MCK CEO David Omwoyo.
Omwoyo criticized the security personnel involved and demanded accountability, warning that such hostile treatment undermines constitutional rights and discourages a free and fair media environment.
“These actions not only cause physical and emotional harm but also send a chilling message to all journalists operating in Kenya,” Omwoyo added.
The Kenya Union of Journalists and other media rights organizations have also joined the call for investigations and appropriate action against those responsible.
As of Monday morning, there was no official response from the Ministry of Interior or the Homa Bay County security team regarding the incident.
The incident has once again raised questions about the safety of media professionals in Kenya, especially during high-profile state functions. Journalists are calling for improved protocols and respect for press credentials to ensure such incidents do not recur.
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