By Oyintari Ben
The US has voiced concern over the safety of journalists covering opposition demonstrations in Kenya following reports of attacks on them.
Following altercations between demonstrators and police, demonstrations turned violent, hurting six journalists and destroying their equipment.
The US particularly addressed an incident in which two police officers were captured on video breaking a press corps’ car before shooting a gas gun into the car.
According to US Ambassador to Kenya Margaret Whitman, press freedom and the safety of journalists are essential to democracy.
Ambassador Whitman argued that the police’s actions violated press freedom and urged them to carry out their duties under the law.
Police brutality, in Whitman’s opinion, is a tool that can be readily employed to undermine or eradicate democratic values in a nation.
In a statement, Whitman stated that “protecting press freedom and safety is a cornerstone of democracy.”
Raila Odinga, the head of the opposition, denounced the vicious attacks on journalists and charged police with using excessive force against demonstrators.
Since the beginning of the protests on March 20, according to the Media Council of Kenya, 25 journalists have been attacked.
The police have previously threatened and illegally detained journalists, and the council is considering legal action against them for their negligence in providing protection.
National Police Service has not yet responded to the accusations.
Mr Odinga has vowed “the mother of all demonstrations” for next Monday and continues to be defiant.
He claims that an assassination attempt was made against him and that his life is in peril.
The twice-weekly protests have a negative effect on Kenyan businesses, and the public is worried about their safety as both sides take extreme positions.
Religious leaders and the envoy of the US president are working behind the scenes to arrange a cease-fire.
It is unknown if US Senator Chris Coon met with former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday in Mombasa, although he was scheduled to meet with President William Ruto on Thursday.
