- Six journalists were injured and equipment was damaged after police fired tear gas in an attempt to arrest Cleophas Malala at Kirobon girls' secondary school
- Journalists were reporting a controversial echoes of War, compiled by Malala and showed at National Drama and Film Festival in Kenya
- Police allegedly intentionally targeting journalists, while throwing tear gas in spite of the media being clearly recognized, which sparked anger at the press threats
- The Nakuru Press Association has condemned the attack, citing it as a threat to the freedom of the media and demanding investigations and disciplinary action from the IPOA and the Ministry of Interior
Nakuru – Six journalists were injured while some of their equipment was destroyed after police stabbed them as they reported the arrest of the former secretary -general UDA Cleophas Malala at Kirobon Girls High School.
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Among them are Maryanne Nyambura of Citizen TV, Peter Kimani of KtnRobert Maina of Inooro TV and Radio, Joseph Kipsang from Standard, Kennedy Gachuhi of Standard Group, and Evans Asiba of Citizen TV.
In a statement, Nakuru Media Chairman Joseph Openda confirmed the injuries, saying the journalists were performing their duties legally in connection with an incident involving Malala in connection with the drama played by Butere Girls by the name Echoes of War.
Opendi said that The Standard Group photographer Joseph Kipsang was also destroyed in the violence.
“The incident, which took place at 9:00 a.m., occurred when our members followed an attempt to arrest former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, correspondent of the Echoes of War complex, scheduled to be shown on Thursday, April 10, 2025 at the 63rd National Festival of Kenya,” Said Lion School, Nakuru.
Why did the police fare at the Nakuru reporters Nakuru
He revealed that at the time of the incident, police officers raised tears to reporters to distract them from writing news of their arrests, though they were fully identified.
“This reckless action endangered life and was a clear attempt to intimidate journalists. Police actions are unacceptable, illegal, and direct attacks on freedom of the press. This is not the first time our members are targeted by law enforcement officers while carrying out their duties. He said.
He said the continuation of the abuse is a dangerous thing and is a serious threat to freedom of expression and the right of the media to report fearlessly or threats.
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The journalists sought an immediate investigation into the incident and called on the relevant authorities, including the Independent Police Authority (IPOA) and the Ministry of Interior, to take appropriate disciplinary action against the officers involved.
How is the 'Echoes of War' drama
Earlier, Malala argued with the officials about their presence in Kirobon Girls after preventing her from reaching Butere Girls to practice the complex echoes of War.
The Echoes of War drama was originally prevented from participating in the Kenyan national drama and film festival due to focusing on youth struggles on civil freedom, governance and social justice.
It was removed in a controversial way from the western region gala, reported under pressure from senior government officials.
The move sparked public opposition, resulting in its restoration. Primary Education Minister Julius Bitok later announced the game would continue to the national level, confirming that the earlier issues that led to his ban had been resolved.
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