Standard Media Journalist Isaiah Gwengi Allegedly Assaulted by Police in Siaya County
Friday, July 7th, in Bondo, Siaya County, police officers allegedly assaulted Standard Group journalist Isaiah Gwengi, causing him to sustain facial injuries.
Gwengi related how he was approached by police while photographing the protest throughout the day.
Despite presenting his press card as evidence of his profession, the police allegedly persisted in arresting him, leading to a physical altercation.
The scribe revealed that he was detained for nearly an hour at Bondo Police Station, prompting his colleagues to advocate for his release.
“They seized my camera and placed me under arrest. Even my camera cannot be located,” he lamented, still reeling from the alleged assault.
Bondo Sub-County Police Commander Ibrahim Kosi told the Standard that the arrest may have been the result of a case of mistaken identity. He guaranteed that police were conducting an investigation and would issue a preliminary report.
Gwengi was among the journalists injured while performing their duties. The assaults were not only allegedly orchestrated by the police but also by rogue elements posing as protesters, according to the reports.
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Amnesty International and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) demanded the release of demonstrators arrested during the Saba Saba protests.
Civil society organizations also demanded the accountability of officers accused of using excessive force.
“Measures taken to ensure the peaceful conduct of the Azimio la Umoja Kamukunji rally should have been applied consistently to all other demonstrations that police officers have violently dispersed.
“Article 21 of the Constitution mandates that the police uphold, promote, and defend human rights, including the right to peaceful assembly. The National Police Service Act’s 2nd Schedule mandates that police use force only as a last resort and in a responsible manner. It is only permissible to use force in limited circumstances, such as protecting life, according to Amnesty’s statement.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga led Azimio in nationwide protests against the Finance Act 2023, which introduced new tax measures such as the Housing Fund.
On Friday, June 30, the High Court halted the implementation of the Act, dealing a major blow to President William Ruto.
Standard Media Journalist Isaiah Gwengi Allegedly Assaulted by Police in Siaya County
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