The Foreign Press Association, Africa (FPAA) has condemned what they termed as the alarming and reprehensible actions of security forces during the recent protests in Nairobi.
In a statement, FPAA stated that the use of excessive force by police officers, particularly against journalists, represents a grave violation of fundamental human rights and press freedom.
“On Tuesday, during the anti-Finance Bill protests, our esteemed colleague, Collins Olunga, a photojournalist for Agence France-Presse (AFP), was egregiously targeted and injured by the police,” they stated in their statement.
“Despite clearly identifying himself as a journalist, Olunga was deliberately struck by a tear gas canister aimed directly at him from close range, resulting in a severe hand injury.”
FPAA in their statements said this deliberate attack signifies a disturbing trend of hostility towards the media in Kenya.
The press association said Olunga, performing his professional duty to document the protests, was initially provided first aid at a nearby medical facility before being evacuated to Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi for further treatment.
“After undergoing minor surgery, he has been discharged and is recovering. However, this incident remains a stark reminder of the inherent risks journalists face, particularly when state forces, who are supposed to protect citizens, become perpetrators of violence,” FPAA said.
“This incident is not isolated. Our team on the ground reported multiple international media personnel having their equipment damaged by police during the same protests. ”
The association said such actions are not only attacks on individuals but are also assaults on the principles of free speech and the free press.
FPAA demanded an immediate and thorough investigation into these incidents by the Independent Police Oversight Authority.
“We call on the government to hold the responsible officers accountable and to implement measures to prevent such abuses in the future,” the association said.
“The FPAA stands in solidarity with Olunga and all journalists who courageously continue to report the truth under dangerous conditions. We affirm our commitment to defending press freedom and protecting journalists from any form of harassment or violence.”
The association stated that the authorities must recognize that a free and independent press is crucial for democracy and should act to safeguard it, rather than suppress it.
They also urged the international community to closely monitor the situation in Kenya and to support efforts to uphold human rights and press freedoms.
