Mediamax journalist, Wanjeri Kariuki is set to undergo surgery after she was shot while covering Tuesday’s protests in Nakuru.
Her colleague Mumbi Wambugu, speaking to KBC on telephone said Kariuki was initially rushed to the Valley Hospital but was later transferred to the Nakuru Provincial General Hospital Annex.
Wanjeri was struck three times in the thigh by rubber bullets despite visibly wearing press identification. She is said to be in a stable condition.
The shooting has been condemned by media stakeholders who have demanded action against the police officer responsible for the shooting.
The Media Council of Kenya has called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conclude investigations and bring the police terrorizing journalists to justice.
“Journalists play a critical role in informing the public and holding powerful institutions accountable and must be allowed to Carry out their duties freely and safely, as enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution. We urge law enforcement agencies to respect the media and to ensure the safety of journalists at all times” MCK said in a statement.
The council which is the regulator of media in Kenya, is urging journalists and media workers to prioritise their safety.
“We at the same time urge journalists and media workers to prioritise their safety, uphold professionalism and take all necessary precautions while working in hostile environments” MCK CEO David Omwoyo.
Mediamax Limited termed the incident as a brazen a brazen assault on media freedom and an attempt to deny, Kenyan citizens access to information.
“As Mediamax Network Limited, we call upon the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into this incident and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. We urge the police and other security forces to respect and protect the rights of journalists to carry out their work without fear of violence or intimidation”, Mediamax group CEO Ken Ngaruiya.
He further assured the journalist is in stable condition.
“Catherine is currently receiving medical attention and is in stable condition. Meanwhile, we wish to assure our audiences of independent, truthful and pro-people journalism”.
