Citizen TV journalists have shared warm messages sent to them by Kenyans after their phone numbers were shared on social media.
The journalists working for the Royal Media Services (RMS) were delighted after the intention of the alleged bloggers worked against them.
RMS Editorial Director Linus Kaikai, Citizen TV Business Editor Yvonne Okwara, and journalist Mashirima Kapombe took to their Twitter (X) pages to thank Kenyans for their support.
Linus Kaikai expressed gratitude for the calls and messages from a section of Kenyans and urged them to continue engaging with the journalists as they serve Kenya.
“My fellow Kenyans, I am overwhelmed by your countless messages of love, kindness, and encouragement. This was certainly not the intended outcome of that early morning ‘brief’. Thank you for the very many calls too; I spoke to a lot of amazing countrymen. Let’s keep talking, loving, and serving Kenya in the best way we can. God bless you all,” Kaikai said.
Mashirima Kapombe & Yvonne Okwara
In one of the screenshots Mashirima Kapombe shared on her page, a user informed her that her phone number had been shared, urging her to be strong despite the bullying she might face from some people.
“Your number has been shared online. I know you’re going to have a rough day but take heart and lots of love from this side. Talk later and take care,” wrote the user.
In response, Kapombe said, “It’s a good day to be Kenyan. Lots of love right back at you.”
Kapombe was grateful for the encouraging messages, emphasizing that it was not the original intention of the alleged government bloggers.
“I don’t think this is what they expected… Thank you for all the kind and warm messages. You all give me hope that Kenya will triumph, and we are better together; known & unknown, rich or poor, Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X. God bless you and our great country,” she said.
On the other hand, Okwara said she received numerous messages from Kenyans, stating that it was a pleasure hearing from the people.
She thanked the people, saying, “What a day! Absolutely a pleasure hearing from you all today. Shukran sana kwa salamu! (Thank you very much for the greetings). Not to mention the hundreds of calls! Ahsante sana!”
Also Read: Editors Guild Raises Alarm Over Attacks on Citizen TV Journalists
Sample of Messages Sent to Citizen TV Journalists
One user texted Kapombe, stating, “We the Gen-Zs alongside Millennials and Patriotic Kenyans love you, Mashirima, for the Lord’s work you’re doing. Together with you, we shall overcome the rogue regime in the long run. God bless you.”
“Yoh Yvonne, how’s you? Government bloggers shared your number, but we’ve no problem with you,” reads a screenshot shared by Okwara.
“Good evening, Yvonne. I salute you for the incredible piece of journalism that you always present to the masses,” reads another.
“Hello, Linus, I know your number has been shared by government bloggers ndio usalimiwe but don’t relent on your duty. Know we are behind you and I myself am very proud of your work as RMS plus the hard questions you were asking our president. Good job to you 25,” one Kenyan told Kenyans.
Also Read: Wetangula Breaks Silence on Kicking Out Citizen TV Journalists
Media Association of Kenya & Kenya Editors Guild Condemn Attack on Journalists
The Kenya Editors’ Guild condemned the reports of intimidation and threats against journalists especially those from Citizen TV through fliers shared on social media.
In statement on July 18, KEG said it takes seriously the safety of journalists, specifically during this season of protests where law enforcers have directly targeted them at work.
“The Guild would like to condemn the threats being peddled on social media by anonymous individuals, who have also threatened to storm the media house,” read part of the statement.
The Media Owners Association of Kenya has also condemned the increased attacks on journalists covering protests and political rallies across the country.
The Association said journalists must be allowed to cover news without fear of intimidation or harm.
Media Council of Kenya
MCK condemned the National Police Service for attacking journalists while going about their work, despite being well-identified and visibly branded.
MCK called on the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to conclude investigations and bring the police terrorizing journalists to book.
“We urge law enforcement agencies to respect the media and to ensure the safety of journalists at all times,” said the Council.
MCK urged journalists and media workers to prioritize their safety, uphold professionalism, and take all necessary precautions while working in hostile environments.
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