Citizen TV journalist Ode Francis was arrested on Kimathi Street in Nairobi’s Central Business District while covering protests against the fuel price hike.
In a video seen by The Kenya Times on October 20, members of the public who were protesting are heard shouting at police officers, informing them that the person being arrested was a journalist.
Despite the public’s pleas, officers proceeded with the arrest and placed Francis in a police Land Rover.
“You are arresting a journalist. Why are you arresting media personnel?” members of the public are heard asking the officers in the video.
Citizen TV Reporter Ode Francis Arrested on Kimathi Street
According to Citizen TV, Francis was on assignment in Nairobi’s Central Business District, covering demonstrations against rising fuel prices.
The journalist was roughed up alongside activists during the protests on Kimathi Street.
He was roughed up by plainclothes officers who reportedly ignored his press identification.
Francis was briefly detained at Central Police Station alongside the activists before being released from police custody.
Also Read: Matatu Operators Clarify on Countrywide Strike Over Fuel Prices
Fuel Protest Organized
The protests followed an announcement by a coalition of activists and civil society groups that they would hold nationwide peaceful demonstrations during the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations to demand lower fuel prices and relief from the rising cost of living.
Operating under the Paza Sauti Movement and the Concerned Citizens of Kenya banner, the group called for the suspension of VAT on petroleum products, a review of fuel taxes and levies, and an independent audit of the energy sector.
In a statement issued on Monday October 19, activist Nyanjom Joshua said rising fuel and energy costs were putting pressure on small businesses, manufacturers, farmers, transporters and households, while driving up the prices of essential commodities.
The group is also urging the government to introduce measures to cushion households and businesses against the rising costs.
“The current cost of fuel is unbearable and burdens small businesses, manufacturers, farmers, transporters and households. High fuel and energy costs of production push up the price of essential commodities and threaten jobs and business sustainability,” activist Nyanjom Joshua said.
Also Read: EPRA Given Ultimatum to Revoke New Fuel Prices
The group also called on the government to introduce tax relief for farmers, manufacturers and other businesses facing higher operating costs, arguing that the measures would help sustain their operations.
Nyanjom urged relevant government agencies to disclose the basis for the fuel price adjustments, the taxes and levies charged per litre, and the measures being taken to cushion consumers against rising costs.
He also urged public transport operators, including boda boda riders, to stand in solidarity with commuters facing similar financial pressures instead of passing a disproportionate share of the increased fuel costs on to passengers.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
