Stop masquerading as journalists: Media Council tells police

 A plainclothes officer arrests a protester in Mathare.

The Media Council of Kenya has called out police officers masquerading as journalists to arrest protesters, terming the act unprofessional.

Through a statement, the Council noted that such ‘tactics’ might endanger the lives of scribes who cover protests, adding that the work of journalists is clearly outlined in the Constitution.

“Impersonation of journalists by the police is a grave unprofessional misconduct on the part of the police and endangers the lives of journalists in the line of duty.

“While the Council appreciates the release of journalists who were earlier arrested while covering the protests, the detaining of journalists was unnecessary, arbitrary and ridiculous,” read the statement in part.

This was after a plainclothes officer, posing as a journalist, pounced on a protester in Mathare and escorted him to a waiting police truck.

The protester was caught unaware by the officer who stealthily sneaked up behind him and wrapped his hands around his waist.

Upon seeing this, the other protesters scampered to safety lest they suffered the same fate.

The Azimio leadership commended its supporters for turning up on Wednesday and urged those who did not get time to show up on Thursday.

Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua urged them to ‘refresh and recharge’ for day two (Thursday) whilst condemning the use of excessive force by the police.

"We empathise with those whose loved ones have lost lives in the hands of rogue elements in the police service. We also wish those who suffered injuries and are lying in various hospitals across the country, quick recovery," she said.

Adding: "We expect the police to provide security to the demonstrations and the general public.”

President William Ruto has maintained that the government will protect the lives and property of its people, ruling out the possibility of a handshake with Raila Odinga.

Speaking in Kericho, the Head of State said there are proper channels that the opposition can use to present their grievances, accusing them of abandoning talks and taking to the streets.

“We have absolutely no issue with any Constitutional provision on picketing or demonstration. Siasa yetu haitakuwa na vita….itakuwa ni siasa bila chuki.

“We must protect this country and the police must be firm on hooligans, criminals and those who want to destroy other people’s businesses,” said Ruto.