The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has raised an alarm over threats towards Standard Group Journalist Osinde Obare after he covered a funeral.
In a statement dated April 2, the council’s Chief Executive officer (CEO) David Omwoyo indicated that the threats were suspected to be a result of a recording the journalist captured of a clash between the followers of two political leaders.
Further, the statement detailed that that Obare was covering a burial ceremony in Goseta, Uasin Gishu County on March 22 when he documented the incident.
Following the events, the standard group journalist had received anonymous phone calls and attempted break-ins at his residence.
“Mr. Obare, while covering a burial ceremony in Goseta, Uasin Gishu County, on 22 March 2024, documented a clash between the followers of two political leaders,” the statement read in part.
“Since the incident, Mr. Obare has faced a series of threats, including anonymous phone calls and attempted break-ins at his residence.”
Also Read: Wetangula Speaks After His Supporters Clashed with Natembeya’s Side at a Funeral
MCK Appeals to IG Koome Over Threats to the Standard Group Journalist
Consequently, the council stated that it had written to the Inspector General of Police over the matter, calling for investigations.
Additionally, David Omwoyo appealed to IG Koome to offer the journalist security as investigations into the case continued.
“The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) condemns the threats against Mr Osinde Obare (MCK012009) working for the Standard Group as a journalist based in Trans Nzoia County and calls for urgent and thorough investigation into the matter.
“The Council has written to the Inspector General of Police, calling for thorough investigation into the threats and harassment against Mr. Obare and bring the culprits to book. Additionally, the Council urges the office of the IG to assure Mr Obare of his security as investigations continue,” indicated the statement.
Also Read: Governor Fernandes Barasa and Khalwale Clash at Funeral in Kakamega
Wetangula and Natembeya Supporters Clash at a Funeral
Earlier on March 22, the supporters of the National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula and the Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya disrupted a funeral service in Trans Nzoia leaving scores injured.
Mourners scampered for safety after the supporters of the two leaders became ungovernable. The governor was whisked away to safety when the chaos began while Wetangula remained at the venue to calm down the mourners.
Later, Wetangula issued a statement condemning leaders for using the youth to cause chaos at funerals while Natembeya claimed that the chaos was caused by individuals who were out to ruin the leadership of the Western region.
Rivalry between the two leaders began after President William Ruto ordered the eviction of illegal settlers occupying the Kitale prison land in Trans Nzoia County.
Wetangula publicly opposed the move accusing Natembeya of instigating the reclamation of the 2,700-acre land.
