Three journalists attacked while covering protests

Journalist at the CBD with gas masks protecting themselves in case of   teargas at GPO roundabout during the Saba Saba protests, Nairobi on 7th July 2025. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Three journalists were attacked by a violent mob while covering the Saba Saba demonstrations.

Citizen TV reporter Kamau Mwangi, videographer James Maina, and  Kameme TV reporter Wahu Ngugi were attacked by individuals posing as peaceful protestors while on assignment in the CBD.

According to Mwangi, he was in the middle of a live link when chaos broke out when the youth began hurling stones at them. He was hit on the back with a stone while Maina sustained injuries on his neck.

The attackers also smashed their camera, rendering it unusable and bringing their coverage to a sudden halt.

"At first, I thought it was a mistake, but when I saw the group charging toward us, I knew we were under attack. I was afraid not just for my safety, but for my crew. It was terrifying," said Mwangi.

Ngugi attempted to flee the escalating violence but was chased down by the same group.

She was pushed to the ground and injured her knees as the goons tried to steal her phone and personal belongings. She narrowly escaped further harm after managing to run toward an anti-riot police vehicle stationed nearby.

Nyeri Press Club Chairman Seth Mwaniki condemned the attack, terming it a calculated attempt to intimidate the media and undermine the right to information.

“What we witnessed today is a direct attack on press freedom. The fact that the journalists were attacked while doing their job — some even during a live broadcast — is deeply worrying,” Mwaniki said.