Groups condemn threats to reporters

By Peter Opiyo and Vincent Bartoo

Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned threats on the lives of two KTN investigative journalists over an expose on the Sh6.4 billion cocaine haul.

The condemnation came as human rights organisations said they would institute private prosecution against police officers named in the controversial killing of General Service Unit officer Erastus Chemorei.

KNCHR, Article 19 and other human rights organisations said death threats violate the Constitution and infringe on the freedom of the media.

"Any threats to journalists or their sources in the course of their legitimate activities are illegal, criminal and tantamount to curtailing progress made to secure fundamental freedoms in the new Constitution," said Article 19 director Henry Maina.

Since ‘Jicho Pevu’ and ‘The Inside Story’ aired the expose under the titles ‘Paruwanja ya Mihadarati’ and ‘Untouchables,’ journalists Mohamed Ali and Dennis Onsarigo and some of their sources have expressed fear for their lives.

Criminal suit

The programme exposed the behind-the-scenes operations surrounding the largest cocaine consignment that was seized in 2004. Chemorei was allegedly killed by fellow officers. Police have denied the version.

Following the exposÈ, police have threatened to sue KTN for mentioning officers who allegedly had a hand in Chemorei’s killing.

"This (threat to sue) shows that they will not investigate the case. They will not probe themselves. That is why we come in," said Mr Ken Wafula.

He disclosed his organisation is in talks with others with a view to engage lawyers to file a criminal suit at the High Court under Section 88 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

"This section allows citizens to file private prosecution in cases where the State has failed to carry out prosecution or where a cover up is involved," said Wafula.

He further said there were plans to hold a memorial service in honour of Chemorei.