The Association of Media Women in Kenya has condemned attacks meted on journalists during Monday's mass demonstrations terming it a violation of human rights and an affront to press freedom.
In a statement on Monday, Executive Director Patience Nyange said police have a mandatory duty to provide security to journalists and ensure their safety without threats and violence in their course of duty.
"A free and objective media is an essential component of our democracy. It allows journalists to fulfil their crucial role as sources of objective and unbiased information," she said.
"Therefore, the attacks on journalists today are a violation of human rights, curtail public access to information and lead to the erosion of press freedom," Nyange added.
Several journalists were assaulted, their vehicles vandalised and their phones and equipment were stolen by goons in various parts of the city.
Some were also beaten and arrested in the course of covering the mass protests called by the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition.
One female journalist was captured on tape narrating her ordeal at the hands of the officers amid sobs and tears, having only managed to salvage a microphone following the incident.
A number of journalists were also arrested and bundled in waiting for police vehicles in Kibra with officers accusing them of mobilising residents in groups.
Nyange commended the journalists for their brevity and for risking their lives on the frontline to ensure a well-informed society.
The Media Council of Kenya, the sector regulator, also issued a statement condemning the attacks and arrest of journalists.
Executive director David Omwoyo said the attacks by goons and officers covering the demonstrations should not be tolerated.
"Police officers attacking journalists undermines press freedom, limits the public’s access to information, violates human rights and can cause physical or psychological harm," he said.
He further castigated demonstrators who participated in attacking the journalists saying their actions demean the spirit of mass action as it betrays the foundations of democracy on which it is founded.
"The Council is monitoring and will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible for the attacks are held accountable for their actions," Omwoyo said.
