The increased arrests and intimidation of journalists in Nakuru has forced many to go into self-censorship.
This has affected the quality of work and prevented many from venturing into investigative journalism.
Speaking at a meeting to mark the World Press Freedom Day, the journalists expressed concern that there will be more intimidation and harassment as the electioneering period draws near.
“I have been receiving death threats especially texts by people who say they are coming for my head,” said Elijah Kinyanjui, the editor of Nakuru News Online.
Kinyanjui, whose house was broken into last year, claimed the media in Nakuru has been a major target for the county government.
“I have been arrested more times under Governor Kinuthia Mbugua administration than during the entire Moi (former president Daniel) regime,” said Kinyanjui.
Kinyanjui said there have been increased arrests and intimidation by the security officers.
Joyce Kimani, from the Star, said many journalists’ houses, among hers, have been broken into in the last few months.
“They are targeting our gadgets and the information therein, making it hard for us to practise freely and fairly,” she added.
Caroline Chebet, a freelance journalist, pointed out that the security forces should prioritise the media security.
“Unfortunately, we are their main target and they take part in interfering and intimidating us,” she added.
Last year, Nakuru politician, Peter ole Osono, shot at six journalists while covering a story at Ol-Jorai settlement scheme.
The Kenya Correspondents Association chairman William Oloo Janak blamed the government for failing to provide security for the journalists.
Janak said there have been increased cases of unjustified arrests, assault and murder of journalists especially with the devolved system of governance.
“It is unfortunate that you are attacked by the State officials who are meant to protect you. Most of the journalists are terrified, not knowing what will befall them next,” said Janak.
According to a report by Article 19 titled; Silenced and Intimidated , 65 journalists faced different forms of violation in 2015, out of which seven are female.
Types of violations included murder (one), physical attack (30), threats by phone (10), legal threats (six), summons by police (five), arrests and charged for defamation (12) and conviction for misuse of communication gadgets (one).