MCK warns against political intimidation after Gachagua labels journalist ‘biased’

In a statement, MCK described the attacks as “reckless and dangerous,” warning that singling out journalists by name endangers their safety and lives.

“Such targeted attacks on individual journalists by senior political figures are utterly unacceptable and pose a direct threat to their safety and lives. In a climate already fraught with insecurity at political rallies, church gatherings, and public events,” MCK said.

Gachagua made the remarks on Wednesday, December 3, during the celebration and unveiling of newly elected Members of County Assembly (MCAs), where he labelled Letoo as “the worst journalist.”

The comments followed his address during a Thanksgiving ceremony for the newly elected MCA for Kariobangi North on Sunday, November 30, which was marked by chaos.

“Stephen Letoo filed a very biased report on Sunday. And you were personally there. Criminals attacked us in church and were driven away by church members,” Gachagua stated.

As Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election, MCK emphasized that journalists must be free to scrutinize political leaders, examine their records, and report facts without fear or favor.

“When figures who claim to champion democracy resort to intimidation and demand the sacking of journalists simply for fulfilling their constitutional duty, they must be unequivocally condemned,” the council added.

The council reminded Gachagua and all political leaders that media freedom and the safety of journalists are established in Article 34 of the Constitution and are fundamental to Kenya’s democracy.

It also urged all current and former leaders to immediately stop targeting, threatening, or inciting harm against journalists and called on law enforcement to provide adequate protection to media workers facing growing risks.

“The media will not be silenced by intimidation. Those seeking public office must accept scrutiny rather than attempt to suppress it,” MCK stated.