By A Correspondent

In an alarming incident highlighting threats to media freedom, a journalist with Mbaitu FM, Alexander Kieti, faced intimidation while covering Machakos County Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s development tour in Mwala and Mbiuni wards on November 12, 2024.

Kieti reported that a county driver, identified as Charles, alongside security personnel and county officials, confronted him aggressively at Mwala Level 4 Hospital, attempting to deter him from covering subsequent stops in the governor’s tour.

The driver allegedly issued threats, accusing Kieti of criticizing the governor and implying further retaliation if Kieti persisted in his reporting.

Despite orders from the governor’s entourage, including an inspectorate officer and official Joel Muthama, to cease covering the event, Kieti proceeded to the next site at Kwa Katusya Dam in Mbiuni Ward.

However, upon arrival, he observed a continued hostile presence, which forced him to leave prematurely and file a police report at Mwala Police Station.

This incident underscores significant concerns over press freedom and safety in Kenya, as outlined in Articles 33, 34, and 35 of the Kenyan Constitution. These articles guarantee freedom of expression, media independence, and access to information—rights that should protect journalists against intimidation, especially in their duty to report matters of public interest.

Such threats against journalists pose a serious challenge to transparency and accountability, undermining the public’s right to be informed.

Government officials and their representatives are reminded to respect these constitutional protections, allowing journalists to conduct their work without interference.

Later in the evening, Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi called the reporter and apologised.