The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the assault and intimidation of journalist Habil Onyango in Homa Bay on September 14, 2025.
In a statement, the council described the incident as a grave threat to press freedom and called for legal action against those responsible.
Onyango was reportedly targeted over his investigative reporting.
He is said to have been lured to a hotel in Homa Bay, where he was ambushed by unknown assailants, forced to inhale bhang, abducted, and assaulted.
The journalist sustained facial injuries, was driven around, and humiliated.
His devices were reportedly confiscated, data deleted, and a fake apology posted online to discredit him.
A doctor at Homa Bay County Hospital later confirmed that Onyango suffered soft tissue injuries.
He declined medication and managed to escape with the help of a passing bodaboda rider.
“The incident, reported to Homa Bay Police Station (OB 25/14/25), involves serious crimes, assault, abduction, and property interference that demand urgent action beyond a routine entry,” MCK said.
The council noted that Onyango’s reporting had exposed alleged fake job rackets that defrauded residents.
MCK further stressed that retaliation against journalists undermines truth and accountability, urging aggrieved parties to seek redress through the Media Complaints Commission instead of resorting to violence.
It reminded authorities that Article 34 of Kenya’s Constitution and international human rights instruments protect media freedom, warning that the attack signalled a dangerous erosion of democratic norms.
The Media Council demanded swift and transparent investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
It also urged the National Police Service to recover Onyango’s devices and ensure his safety.
“We stand unwavering in our defence of media freedom and journalists’ safety. No voice will be silenced and the truth will always prevail,” the council stated.
