Police Deny Targeting Journalists During Madaraka Day Chaos in Homa Bay
Chaos erupted at the Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay on Madaraka Day, June 1. Journalists covering the national event found themselves caught in a violent stampede near the presidential entrance.
Several journalists were injured in the process. According to media reports, they were allegedly beaten by police while trying to access the venue.
However, the National Police Service (NPS) has strongly denied these claims.
“At no point were police officers targeting the media during this incident,” said NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga.
“We maintain that the media and the police share a symbiotic relationship, each fulfilling their professional roles.”
Media Council Condemns Attack
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) quickly responded, condemning the incident as a violation of media rights.
In a strongly worded statement, the council noted what it termed a “worrying pattern of hostility from the state towards the media.”
They listed multiple injured journalists:
- Steve Okedi of KTN
- Marble Achieng of NTV
- Ephantus Maina of Royal Media Services
- George Odiwuor of NTV
“This was a blatant disregard for journalists’ welfare,” said the council.
“We urge reconciliatory measures to protect media workers, especially during national events.”
Police Respond to the Allegations
The NPS refuted claims of direct attacks on journalists. Instead, they claimed journalists were unintentionally caught in a chaotic moment.
“There was significant pushing and shoving by groups of youths attempting to force entry into the stadium,” read the NPS statement.
“This compelled security officers at the presidential entrance to act appropriately to prevent unlawful intrusion.”
The NPS added that the injured journalists were at the wrong place during the crowd control operation.
“They happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time,” Nyaga said.
Warning to Journalists
In their final remarks, the police urged caution. They advised journalists to observe personal safety, especially in crowded or tense environments.
“Journalists must always prioritise safety when reporting from volatile scenes,” the statement concluded.
Stadium Overwhelmed as Residents Rush In
Eventually, they allowed previously locked-out residents to enter, further worsening the situation near the VIP access point.
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Police Deny Targeting Journalists During Madaraka Day Chaos in Homa Bay
