The Defenders Coalition has condemned the alleged harassment, physical assault and arrest of Citizen TV journalist Odee Francis while covering demonstrations against rising fuel prices in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
In a press statement dated Thursday, October 22, 2026, the human rights organisation called for accountability, urging authorities to investigate the incident and take measures to protect journalists covering public demonstrations.
The coalition expressed concern over what it described as the use of force and intimidation against journalists carrying out their professional duties. It maintained that covering a demonstration does not make a journalist a participant in the protest or justify harassment, assault or arbitrary arrest.
The organisation said journalists must be allowed to report on matters of public interest without fear of violence, detention or retaliation.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of media practitioners covering demonstrations and the protection of press freedom in Kenya. Journalists play a critical role in informing the public, documenting events and holding public officials accountable.
According to the coalition, harassment and arbitrary arrests of journalists undermine democratic processes and threaten the public’s right to access information.
The organisation cited Articles 33, 34 and 29 of the Constitution of Kenya, which protect freedom of expression, media independence, and the right to freedom and security of the person.
Article 34 guarantees the freedom and independence of the media, while Article 33 protects freedom of expression, including the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas. Article 29 protects individuals against violence, arbitrary deprivation of liberty, torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
The coalition emphasised that these constitutional protections apply to State agencies, including the National Police Service, and must be respected during law enforcement operations.
While acknowledging the police’s responsibility to maintain public order and protect life and property, the organisation insisted that such duties must be carried out lawfully and proportionately, with respect for fundamental rights.
It warned against the use of policing measures to suppress independent journalism or intimidate those documenting public events.
The concerns come as Kenya approaches the 2027 General Election, with the coalition stressing that a free, independent and secure media is essential for credible elections, informed public participation and accountability.
The Defenders Coalition called on the National Police Service and the Inspector-General of Police to publicly condemn the reported harassment, ensure officers respect media freedom and issue clear directives prohibiting intimidation, assault and arbitrary arrests of journalists covering demonstrations.
It also urged the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported harassment and arrest of Odee Francis.
Additionally, the organisation called on the Kenyan government to take concrete measures to guarantee the safety of journalists and human rights defenders.
The coalition reaffirmed its solidarity with Francis, Citizen TV and other journalists working in challenging circumstances, calling for an environment where media practitioners can report freely, independently and safely without fear of reprisals from State or non-State actors.
