The Kenya Editors Guild has strongly condemned the assault of journalists Gilbert Sitati of Standard Group and George Njoroge of Mediamax while covering a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) meeting in Cherangany, Trans Nzoia County on Friday, March 20, 2026.
In a statement released on Saturday, the guild described the attack as a “direct affront to media freedom” and raised alarms over the increasing hostility and violence faced by journalists in politically charged environments.
The journalists were reportedly attacked while reporting on a controversial fake ambulance procurement deal linked to Harambee House, an incident the guild termed “unacceptable” and a violation of the public’s right to information.
“Journalists play a critical role in holding power to account and informing the public on matters of national interest. Any attempt to intimidate, harass, or harm them for executing this duty undermines democratic principles and erodes accountability,” the statement read.
The guild called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to launch a “thorough and transparent investigation” into the incident, urging authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible.
KEG warned that accountability must extend beyond the foot soldiers, insisting that “those who sanctioned or enabled the attack must be held fully accountable.”
The editors’ body also urged political leaders and party officials linked to the case to cooperate fully with the investigation and guarantee the safety of journalists in political spaces, which should never become zones of lawlessness.
KEG affirmed its support for Sitati, Njoroge, and all journalists facing threats in the line of duty.
“We stand in solidarity with Gilbert Sitati and George Njoroge and all journalists who continue to face threats in the line of duty,” the guild said, noting that it would consider further legal action, including private prosecution, if state agencies fail to act decisively.
Members of the public, journalists, and media houses were encouraged to document and report incidents of intimidation or violence against the press, sharing information either with authorities or KEG to aid accountability efforts.
The attack highlights growing concerns over press freedom in Kenya’s politically charged environments, underscoring the risks journalists face while performing their vital role in informing the public and holding leaders accountable.
