By Erestinah Jane | June 30, 2026
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of orchestrating what he described as a coordinated campaign to intimidate journalists and independent media houses, alleging that the crackdown is aimed at suppressing scrutiny of the government ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a press conference on, the leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) claimed the government was increasingly targeting journalists investigating corruption, misuse of public resources and abuse of office.
Gachagua argued that a free and independent press remains essential to democratic governance, warning that intimidation of journalists undermines constitutional rights and weakens public accountability.
Among the incidents he cited was the recent attempted abduction of Standard Group Associate Editor Nixon Kiplimo in Nakuru. Gachagua alleged that the incident reflected growing pressure on journalists covering sensitive stories involving the government and security agencies.
He also referred to reports that journalists covering anti-government demonstrations in Nairobi on June 25 were assaulted while carrying out their duties, saying such incidents demonstrate an increasingly hostile environment for the media.
The former Deputy President further alleged that journalists working for Mediamax Network Limited have been subjected to sustained harassment, both physically and online. He also claimed that radio presenter Muthoni Wakirumba had received threats from senior political figures because of her work, although he did not provide specific details or evidence to support the allegation.
Gachagua additionally claimed he had received intelligence indicating that several senior editors and investigative journalists had been identified for increased surveillance and intimidation by state agencies. He did not publicly disclose the names of those allegedly affected or provide documentary evidence for the claims.
He argued that any attempts to silence the media would amount to a violation of Articles 33 and 34 of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantee freedom of expression and the independence of the media.
Calling on journalists and media organisations to remain steadfast, Gachagua said the press plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and enabling citizens to make informed decisions, particularly as the country approaches the next general election.
He urged editors, reporters and media owners not to succumb to intimidation, saying independent journalism remains one of the country’s most important democratic safeguards.
The DCP leader also appealed to international organisations, including the United Nations and global press freedom watchdogs, to closely monitor developments affecting media freedom in Kenya and across the East African region. He argued that increasing pressure on journalists in several countries signals a broader decline in democratic space that requires regional and international attention.
The government had not immediately responded to Gachagua’s allegations by the time of publication. However, Kenyan authorities have consistently maintained that they respect constitutional freedoms, including media freedom, while emphasizing that law enforcement agencies operate within the confines of the law.
