MCK Goes After Governor's Staff Accused of Beating Up Daily Nation Journalists

The Nation Centre building in Nairobi's Kimathi Street where the Nation Media Group offices are located. Monday, October 21, 2019
The Nation Centre building located at Kimathi Street, Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD).
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Kenyans.co.ke

Media Council of Kenya on Friday, December 24, condemned unwarranted attack against a Daily Nation Journalist and other two media personalities.

Maureen Ongala of Daily Nation was in the company of Elias Yaa who works for The Star Newspaper and Daniel Peshu when the attack occurred.

The three Journalists were beaten up by officers attached to Kilifi County Governor Gideon Maitha Mung'aro while covering protest against the county government on December 23.

“The council condemns the atrocious acts meted out against journalists as they are a direct violation of press freedom as espoused in article 34 and 35 of the Kenyan constitution,” MCK stated.

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MCK CEO David Omwoyo in 2018

According to a statement issued by MCK, the attack occurred at Karisa Maitha ground, where a group of Journalists had assembled to responds to calls by members of the public who had staged the demonstration. 

MCK's Chief Executive Officer and Secretary David Omwoyo Omwoyo called for a swift investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators involved.

“In the absence of decisive action, the media council of Kenya will seek private prosecution of those found culpable,” the council announced.

The case was reported at the Kilifi police station under OB number 33/23/12/2022 as MCK informed the perpetrators and the public that any attack on journalists is a criminal Act.

“We advise that any grievances concerning the behavior and practices of journalists be reported to the media complaints commission,” MCK noted.

On November 24, two Nation Media Group (NMG) journalists were assaulted by security attached to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's wife, Dorcas Gachagua.

MCK confirmed receipt of the assault complaints and launched investigations into the incident.

Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo (Second from the Left) with members of the council during a press briefing in Nairobi.
Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo (Second from the Left) with members of the council during a press briefing in Nairobi.
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