Mwakideu warns of media blackout if attacks on journalists persist
By Paulette Mboga, August 22, 2025Radio presenter and media personality Alex Mwakideu has issued a stern warning to politicians following reports of journalists being injured during the Democracy for Citizens’ Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua’s political rally on Thursday, August 22, 2025.
Mwakideu condemned the repeated harassment and attacks on members of the press, saying the media plays a critical role in informing the public and must be protected.
Speaking passionately on the radio on Friday, August 22, 2025, he stressed that journalists are not political actors but professionals tasked with delivering information through television, online platforms, and newspapers.
“Ningependa kutoa wito kwa wanasiasa kwamba wanahabari ndio watu ambao wanaleta information kwa runinga, katika mtandao, katika magazeti. Wakati wa mkutano wa siasa wanahabari wasijeruhiwe,” he said.
Journalists deserve safety
Mwakideu expressed disappointment that incidents of journalists being attacked at political events have become common.
He cited instances where vehicles belonging to media houses were damaged as reporters attempted to cover rallies.
“Na si mara ya kwanza. Magari ya wanahabari imekuwa ikiharibiwa tu wakienda kutafuta story,” he noted, adding that such acts undermine press freedom.
He further criticised the political class for failing to rein in their supporters, insisting that it is unacceptable for journalists to end up in hospital simply because they were covering stories.
“Haiwezi kuwa mwanahabari anaenda hospitali amejeruhiwa na ametoka ku cover stories zenu? Na yeye si mfuasi wa chama chochote,” he lamented.
According to Mwakideu, politicians must take immediate action to ensure the safety of reporters at rallies and other political gatherings. Failure to do so, he warned, could force the media to impose a blackout on events where safety is not guaranteed.
“You must take action now. Tukiamua giza, giza tu. Lakini kufuata mwanasiasa tuwache tuweke giza kabisa,” he declared.
The broadcaster’s remarks add to growing concern about the safety of journalists in Kenya, particularly during political seasons when tensions are high. Media watchdogs and rights organisations have consistently urged political leaders to guarantee freedom of the press and protect reporters from harm.
Mwakideu’s strong warning resonates with journalists who have long complained about hostility in the field. By threatening a media blackout, he underscored the power of the press to hold leaders accountable while also reminding politicians that the flow of information to the public depends on a safe working environment for reporters.