Uasin Gishu Journalists Demand Freedom and Protection in Peaceful Protest
The journalists condemned the persistent use of force against them, particularly during coverage of protests and similar events
Journalists based in Uasin Gishu held a peaceful protest today in solidarity with their colleagues nationwide, advocating for the freedom of their rights. The demonstration, aimed at condemning the attacks and violations against journalists by police officers, was led by the Uasin Gishu Journalists’ Association chairman, Mr. James Gitaka.
The protest route spanned from Eldoret Central Police Station to the County Commissioner’s office, where they held a press briefing. Mr. Gitaka, alongside fellow journalists, declared, “All we want is freedom; we are tired of being oppressed by the police officers. We are just doing our job like any other Kenyans, so stop attacking us.”
The journalists condemned the persistent use of force against them, particularly during coverage of protests and similar events. They urged the police to refrain from using excessive force, asserting it as a violation of their rights. They also called on former media practitioners who have transitioned into government roles, like the ‘Jichopevu’, to remember their roots and advocate for the protection of journalists’ rights instead of criticizing them.
After a long day of campaigning and demanding the upholding of their rights nationwide, the journalists returned home with hopes that the government will fulfill their demands.