The Inspector-General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has expressed concern over the alleged manhandling of a journalist by police officers in Nairobi while covering demonstrations against the high cost of fuel.
In a communication issued to police commanders on October 22, Kanja said the incident, captured in footage aired by mainstream media, had portrayed the National Police Service (NPS) in a bad light despite repeated reminders to officers to uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties.
This followed the alleged assault of Citizen TV journalist Francis Odee by police officers on Mashujaa Day while he was covering protests in Nairobi. His shirt was torn during the incident.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organisations, the Media Council of Kenya, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and members of the public.
Kanja cited Article 244 of the Constitution, which requires the National Police Service to strive for the highest standards of professionalism and discipline and to comply with constitutional standards of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
He reiterated that all police officers must be guided by constitutional requirements and professional standards at all times, warning that any officer who violates these obligations would face appropriate administrative action.
He further directed officers to discharge their duties in a manner that inspires public confidence in the service rather than attracts public condemnation.
“All commanders are informed to disseminate the information to all officers under their respective commands and acknowledge receipt and compliance,” the communication stated.
The directive was signed by Mathew Kutoh, Deputy Principal to the Inspector-General of Police.
Several agencies have condemned the attack and called for action against the officers involved. Both IPOA and the police Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) have launched investigations into the incident.
The Defenders Coalition also condemned the harassment, physical assault and arrest of Odee.
In a statement, the human rights organisation expressed concern over the use of force and intimidation against journalists performing their professional duties, warning that such actions threaten media freedom and the public’s right to information.
The coalition maintained that journalists covering demonstrations should not be treated as participants in protests simply because they are documenting events.
“Journalists must be allowed to carry out their work without fear of violence, detention or retaliation for reporting on matters of public interest,” the organisation said.
