Journalists in Nakuru have taken to the streets to protest the shooting of Kameme TV reporter Catherine Wanjeri Kariuki.
Bearing placards with messages like “reject killer police”, “justice for Cate” and “do not kill the messenger”, journalists in Nakuru took to the streets on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, to protest the shooting of Wanjeri by police.
Wanjeri was shot three times in the thigh by police officers while covering peaceful demonstrations in Nakuru town.
The protesters, wearing their Media Council of Kenya (MCK) jackets, marched to the County Police Commander’s office to present their demands.
In a press statement last night, the Nakuru Journalists Association announced the demonstration demanding justice for one of their own.
“Following the shooting incident of a journalist, Nakuru journalists will march tomorrow, Wednesday 17th, at 9 am to the County Police Commander’s office to demand justice for the actions of the rogue officer involved in the shooting of Kameme FM/TV reporter Catherine Kariuki. We demand the arrest and subsequent arraignment of the killer cop. Carry your MCK jackets and tools of work,” the statement posted earlier read.
The shooting incident which happened while the reporter was covering the demos, sparked outrage among journalists and journalists unions who have since demanded justice and accountability.
They have condemned violence on members of the fourth estate highlighting concerns over the safety of reporters covering protests and other events in Kenya.
Mediamax issues statement
Earlier, Mediamax Network Limited denounced the attack on the Kameme TV reporter, who was shot during nationwide protests.
Despite clearly wearing press identification, Catherine was specifically targeted and shot three times in the thigh by police officers.
Mediamax described this incident as police brutality and a direct attack on media freedom, interpreting it as an effort to prevent Kenyans from receiving essential information.
The network highlighted their view of this violence as a deliberate attempt to suppress the coverage of the protests.
“Despite wearing identifiable press gear, Catherine was targeted and shot in the thigh three times by police officers while covering nationwide protests by youth demanding good governance.
We consider this police brutality against journalists who were covering the protests a brazen assault on media freedom and an attempt to deny Kenyan citizens access to information,” a statement by the network read in part.
They have called for an unbiased investigation into the attack, demanding that those responsible be held accountable.
Mediamax urges law enforcement and security agencies to respect and safeguard journalists’ rights to work without the threat of violence or harassment.
Catherine is currently undergoing medical treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. Mediamax has expressed their thoughts and prayers for her and her family during this difficult time.
The network also affirms its support for all journalists who courageously report the truth under challenging conditions.