The Media Council of Kenya has condemned attacks on journalists covering the ongoing protests over the high cost of living.
In a statement on Monday, MCK CEO David Omwoyo said the council has received reports of violent physical attacks on media personnel.
He said journalists decried the destruction of their equipment and information collated while others also lost their valuables.
Omwoyo said the attacks violate human rights and undermine press freedom.
"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.
"It is essential that journalists are able to carry out their work without fear of violence or harassment, and that law enforcement agencies are held accountable for any actions that violate their rights or impede their ability to report on events."
He said that demonstrators attacking the media demeans the spirit of mass action as it betrays the foundations of democracy on which it is founded.
He added that organising mass action which starts by attacking the media is dangerous to democratic values.
Omwoyo said that journalists play a vital role in providing accurate and timely information to the public, and attacks on them while carrying out their duties are unacceptable.
"The freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy, and any attempt to intimidate or harm journalists is a direct assault on this fundamental right," he said.
"Attacks on journalists during demonstrations are a serious concern and must be condemned by all those who value press freedom and democracy."
He said 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 commended all journalists who put themselves at risk to report on events and keep the public informed.
