Nairobi– The Friday night attack on reporters at Nairobi’s Kettle House Bar and Grill has actually provoked strong condemnation from different quarters throughout the nation.
The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) has actually revealed its discouragement over the attack on its members, branding it as “barbaric” and unjustifiable.
In a declaration, Secretary General Erick Oduor hired police to hold the club owner liable for the damages and injuries caused on the reporters throughout the occurrence that took place throughout a raid on shisha.
KUJ highlighted that reporters have an essential function in serving society, specifically when it pertains to matters of public interest, and their commitment to the higher good of Kenya ought to not be blocked by acts of violence.
Kileleshwa Member of County Assembly, Robert Alai, whose jurisdiction covers the place of the attack, has actually likewise signed up with the chorus of condemnation. Alai prompted for a speedy examination into the matter to make sure that those accountable face legal repercussions.
In his declaration, Alai highlighted the considerable function played by the media in distributing vital info to the general public and worried the value of protecting media liberty.
The attack took place as reporters from numerous media homes accompanied a National Authority for the Campaign versus Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) group throughout a crackdown on shisha cigarette smoking at Kettle House Bar and Grill. The operation was particularly targeted at the facility due to reports of it enabling clients to smoke shisha within the club, which has ties to political leader Millicent Omanga.
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The occurrence left a number of reporters from various media outlets with serious injuries. The raid, performed by NACADA authorities accompanied by policeman, took place at 11 pm, leading to a run-in with the club’s bouncers who strongly faced and attacked the reporters, taking their recording devices and taking their belongings and money.
Amongst the hurt reporters, Nation Media professional photographer Boniface Bogita was stabbed two times in the ribs however is now reported to be in steady condition. Kenya Broadcasting Corporation reporter Jane Kibira was likewise stabbed in the back, while Boniface Okendo and Francis Odee from the Standard Media Group were physically attacked, and their electronic cameras were harmed.
Authorities ultimately brought back order and jailed the bouncers, who had actually attempted to avert capture by altering their clothing and hiding in the bar’s toilets.
The event has actually highlighted issues from regional homeowners who have actually grumbled about the club’s extreme sound levels and evident neglect for grievances.
The crackdown on shisha was led by NACADA Chief Executive Officer Antony Omerikwa and Head of Enforcement Nicholas Kosgei. Kosgei reported the effective arrest of several suspects and the confiscation of shisha pots throughout the operation.
Kenya prohibited shisha in 2017, forbiding all elements of its usage, import, manufacture, sale, promo, and circulation, with charges beginning at Sh50,000 in fines or a minimum prison regard to 6 months. Kenya signed up with surrounding East African nations Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda in disallowing shisha usage.