The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has warned that attacks on journalists threaten the public's right to information. In a statement issued on Monday, the commission said violence and intimidation against media workers undermine democratic accountability.
The commission cited figures from the Media Council of Kenya's State of Media Freedom in Kenya 2026 report. According to Capital FM, as published by AllAfrica, the report recorded 92 verified press freedom violations in 2025. Physical assaults were the largest category, making up 67 per cent of cases.
Business Today Kenya reported that the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) sees violations rising as the 2027 General Election approaches. According to MCK data cited by the outlet, 47 press freedom violations were documented between July and September 2026 alone.
KNCHR called for prompt, impartial and effective investigations into crimes against journalists. It said accountability should reach beyond the people who carry out attacks. Those who plan, facilitate or mastermind them should also face action, the commission said.
The commission urged the government and other institutions to protect journalists from physical, digital and legal harassment. It said Kenya needs a safe environment where independent journalists can work without fear of reprisals. "When journalists are attacked for seeking the truth, the public's right to information is threatened," the commission said. It ended its statement with a call: "Protect journalists. Defend freedom of expression. End impunity."
The Eastleigh Voice noted that the Constitution protects press freedom. Article 34 guarantees media independence and shields people who share information from interference. Article 35 gives citizens the right to access information held by the State. KNCHR said attacks on media workers threaten these safeguards.
The stakes reach beyond the media. When reporters are threatened or silenced, the public loses information it needs to question those in power, including how public money is used.