The Commission on Administrative Justice has condemned recent attacks on journalists while in the line of duty as well as abduction of citizens by the police.
Kajuju said an attack on a journalist is an attack on Kenya’s democratic space and freedom as enshrined in the Constitution.
Speaking in Meru town when she officially opened the Ombudsman office, Kajuju reiterated that the shooting of a journalist covering protests in Nakuru was inhuman and demanded that those involved face the full force of the law.
“We have taken note of abductions and use of brutal force on protesters. The police must ensure they operate within the law and protect the right of Kenyans to protest peacefully. The government must release any person abducted because it is illegal,” Ms Kajuju said.
The ombudsman expressed concern that a journalist who was clearly identifiable was targeted by the police.
She further said Kajuju urged Meru residents to use the office for their benefits in resolving maladministration disputes where aggrieved party fears of injustice.
The office will serve Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Meru, and parts of Isiolo counties.
“Opening this office is a great milestone. It will solve many complaints against public offices thus saving residents the agony of traveling all the way to Nairobi. We have partnered with the Judiciary under the alternative justice system to address challenges and seek remedy to mal-administration,” she said.
Mt Kenya region Media Council of Kenya Coordinator Jackson Karanja said there is no one above the law to deny Journalists access to information or attack them.
“Leaders must be accountable. We all have a responsibility to firmly defend the rights and freedoms so that what we are witnessing in this Country today would never build up but be resolved effectively,” Karanja said.
