Kenya Union of Journalists(KUJ) Warns Politicians: Attack Journalists, Face Media Blackout.

The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) has issued a strong warning to politicians against using goons to attack journalists covering political rallies ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

KUJ Secretary General Erick Oduor said the continued targeting of journalists is unacceptable and risks undermining the Media’s role in informing Kenyans during the election period.

The warning comes after scores of journalists were injured in Homa Bay County while covering political rallies organised by Linda Mwananchi leaders.

Journalists from the Standard Group, Royal Media Services, K24 and Agence France-Presse (AFP) were reportedly attacked by goons during the political activities. Some sustained injuries, while their equipment was also damaged.

In a statement issued on Monday, Oduor condemned the attacks, saying journalists should not be treated as targets whenever political disagreements turn violent.

“The continued attacks on journalists when carrying out their obligations is a dangerous trend that must be condemned in the strongest terms possible,” Oduor said.

He called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those behind the attacks, saying only firm action against the perpetrators would ensure justice for the injured journalists.

KUJ said journalists often find themselves caught in the middle when rival political groups engage in violence during rallies. The union stressed that the media has an important role in connecting political leaders with voters and providing Kenyans with information they need to make informed decisions.

The union also warned that violence must not be allowed to become a political strategy during the 2027 election campaign.

“Violence should never be a strategy to stop Kenyans from exercising their constitutional rights during elections season,” Oduor said.

KUJ further accused some political actors of allowing violence to be directed at journalists whenever rival groups clash, saying the trend must come to an end before the country enters a more intense campaign period.

The union has now issued what it described as a final warning to politicians who sponsor or encourage attacks on journalists.

Oduor warned that politicians found to be behind violence against journalists could face a media blackout during the campaign season.

He said the move would be aimed at restoring respect and dignity to journalists and ensuring that media workers can perform their duties without fear of assault or intimidation.

KUJ has urged politicians to take responsibility for their supporters and ensure that journalists covering their rallies are protected.

With political activities expected to increase ahead of the 2027 General Elections, the union says the safety of journalists must remain a priority for political leaders, security agencies and organisers of public rallies.

The union insists that journalists must be allowed to report freely and safely, regardless of the political side they are covering.