This archive report was first published on 3 November 2021.
Kenya: DPP Vows Action Against Hate Mongers Abusing Free Speech ¶
Published on November 3, 2021
Kenya's Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Noordin Hajji has vowed to take action against individuals who use free speech to perpetuate hate and divisions during and after the electioneering period.
Speaking during the commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI), Hajji emphasized that free speech must not be a license to assault political opponents or engage in acts of vandalism.
"I want to emphasize that even as we protect the freedoms of speech during this season, we will prosecute anyone who uses free speech to perpetuate hate and violence," Hajji said.
The DPP called on the media to be vigilant and report individuals who use free speech to spread inter-ethnic tension.
"We must not allow ethnic bigots in the name of free speech to terrorize others by threatening to initiate violence," Hajji added.
His comments come at a time when the country is experiencing heightened political tension with incidents of violence witnessed in some regions.
The DPP emphasized the need for journalists to adhere to professional and ethical standards in the performance of their duties by upholding integrity, accountability, and transparency.
Inspector General of the National Police Service (NPS) Hillary Mutyambai also emphasized the need for cooperation between the media and the police to address rising assault cases against journalists.
"There is need to cement the collaboration between the National Police Service and the Media Council of Kenya in order to address issues that arise out of the causes and attacks on media workers," Mutyambai said.
