MCK condemns Journalist Peter Mwita’s arrest, warns against media intimidation
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the arrest and detention of journalist Peter Mwita Maseke, warning that the move amounts to intimidation targeting the media and threatens press freedom.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 1, 2026, the Council called for Mwita, a journalist with Ahhifaa Media Group based in Mombasa County, to be released on free bond, noting that his detention was carried out under unclear circumstances.
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According to MCK, Mwita is being held in connection with information circulated on WhatsApp concerning the organisation of criminal gangs operating in the Kisauni area of Mombasa County.
“Police are holding hum in relation to the authorship of information on the organisation of criminal gangs operating in the Kisauni area in Mombasa County, which was circulated on the WhatsApp platform.”
The Council said the journalist was initially summoned by police to record a statement on December 30, 2025, before being arrested a day later on December 31, 2025.
The Council described Mwita’s arrest over journalistic work on matters of public interest as a blatant attempt to silence whistleblowers and force journalists into self-censorship.
It warned that law enforcement agencies should not misuse their authority to deny Kenyans their legitimate rights, including the right to bail.
“The Council wishes to remind the national and local government that Articles 33 and 34 of the Constitution protect the freedom of expression and the freedom of the media. These tights are Fundamental to a democratic society,” read the statement in part.
Further, the Council expressed concern over the use of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act to intimidate and harass journalists, terming such actions unfortunate and unconstitutional.
It added that any attempt by police or local administrators to compel Mwita to reveal his sources or intimidate him into silence would amount to a direct violation of professional journalistic standards and the Constitution of Kenya.
Additionally, MCK demanded the immediate cessation of harassment against Mwita and urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure that officers respect the clear boundary between law enforcement duties and media freedom.
