The National Police Service (NPS) has responded to strong condemnation from the Kenya Editors’ Guild (KEG) over alleged attacks on journalists during the 63rd Kenya National Drama and Film Festivals in Nakuru.
In a statement issued on April 10, KEG accused police officers of violently harassing journalists covering the attempted arrest of former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala at Kirobon High School in Rongai Sub-county. Malala is the scriptwriter of Echoes of War, a controversial play that was scheduled to be performed during the festival.
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KEG said anti-riot police lobbed teargas canisters directly at journalists who were lawfully carrying out their duties on the night of Tuesday, April 8.
Among those affected were Maryanne Nyambura (Citizen TV), Peter Kimani (KTN News), Robert Maina (Inooro TV & Radio), Joseph Kipsang (freelance), Kennedy Gachuhi (Standard Group), and Evans Asiba (Citizen TV). Kipsang’s camera was reportedly damaged during the confrontation.
“These twin actions against the students and the press represent a dangerous erosion of civil liberties, particularly the freedom of expression and the right to access information,” said KEG President Zubeidah Kananu.
KEG also raised concerns about the treatment of Butere Girls High School students, who were denied a chance to perform their court-sanctioned play at Melvin Jones Academy. Riot police reportedly sealed off the venue, barred journalists from entering, and attempted to force the students to perform without costumes, music, or an audience. The students walked out in protest.
“Journalists are not enemies of the state. They are facilitators of public discourse and accountability,” Kananu added. “Attacks on the media are attacks on the public’s right to know.”
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KEG demanded immediate investigations, disciplinary action against the officers involved, and accountability from the National Police Service and Ministry of Interior.
In response, the National Police Service expressed concern over the allegations.
“NPS is deeply concerned by reports circulating on social and mainstream media alleging that police officers interfered with journalists in the line of duty,” said Police Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.
“As a Service, we recognise that attacks on journalists are criminal acts that violate the rights and privileges afforded to them under the Constitution and the Media Council Act, 2013.”
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The police service emphasized that unprofessional conduct such as harassment or obstruction of journalists would not be tolerated.
“Any officer found in breach of these standards will face disciplinary action in accordance with the law,” Nyaga stated.
NPS described the incident as “unfortunate and isolated” and confirmed that investigations are ongoing. The service assured the public that decisive action would be taken if any wrongdoing is found.
“The National Police Service remains committed to maintaining a cordial relationship with the media and reaffirms its dedication to strengthening this partnership,” Nyaga added.
Meanwhile, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) also weighed in, condemning the actions of the police and calling for accountability.
“We wish to condemn in the strongest terms possible the mistreatment of Butere Girls High School, journalists, and other festival goers,” said ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna. “We join other Kenyans in demanding that the authorities allow the young artists to stage their play like all others.”
Sifuna questioned why the government appeared to fear artistic expression from school children.
“Serious questions arise when a government is scared of children’s art—a mere expression of talent in a high school festival,” he said.
ODM emphasized that freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution and must be upheld regardless of age or setting.
The ODM statement echoed growing public concern that the government may be infringing on civil liberties under the guise of maintaining order. Civil society groups, artists, and media practitioners have all voiced alarm at the police’s conduct during the Nakuru festival.
With pressure mounting, all eyes are now on the ongoing investigations and whether the government will take concrete steps to protect press freedom and uphold the rights of young performers.
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