The assault on two journalists in Cherangany last week is not an isolated outrage. It is part of a pattern, and Kenyans should be alarmed by how routine such violence is becoming.

George Njoroge and Gilbert Sitati were simply doing their job covering a political meeting when they were beaten and nearly maimed. This attack is part of a growing culture of impunity that continues to embolden political thugs who believe they can act without consequence.

In recent months, journalists have been assaulted by county officials and thugs while covering protests. Others have been roughed up by police despite clearly identifying themselves.

The same script plays out with depressing predictability every time. Authorities condemn the violence and promise investigations. Then the story fades, and accountability disappears with it.

We are tired of it.

How many more journalists must be beaten before action replaces words? How many more videos must circulate before arrests are made?

The thugs who attack journalists are not faceless. They are known, named, and clearly seen on camera. Their political patrons are also well known. Yet nothing happens.

Why do we allow this? Why do we tolerate individuals and their handlers mocking the law with such confidence?

Journalists are not criminals but professionals carrying out a constitutional duty to inform the public. An attack on them is an attack on the public’s right to know.

The thug captured on video assaulting journalists in Cherangany must be arrested and prosecuted.

QUOTE OF THE DAY: "Guard with jealous attention the public liberty. Suspect everyone who approaches that jewel.”  —US Founding Father and Revolutionary Patrick Henry on March 23, 1775, proclaimed “Give me liberty or give me death” in a speech encouraging Virginia troops to join the American Revolutionary War