MCK Condemns Arrest of Journalist Peter Mwita, Warns of Media Intimidation

The Media Council of Kenya has strongly condemned the arrest and detention of journalist Peter Mwita Maseke, describing the move as a serious threat to media freedom and an act of intimidation against the press. In a statement released on Thursday, January 1, 2026, the Council raised concern over the circumstances under which Mwita was arrested and called for his immediate release on free bond.

Mwita is a journalist with Ahhifaa Media Group based in Mombasa County. According to the Council, his detention is linked to information circulated on WhatsApp regarding the organisation of criminal gangs operating in the Kisauni area of Mombasa County. The Council noted that the basis of the arrest remains unclear, especially given the nature of Mwita’s work as a journalist reporting on issues of public interest.

“Police are holding hum in relation to the authorship of information on the organisation of criminal gangs operating in the Kisauni area in Mombasa County, which was circulated on the WhatsApp platform.”

The Media Council explained that Mwita was first summoned by police on December 30, 2025, to record a statement. He was then arrested the following day on December 31, 2025. The Council stated that this sequence of events raises serious questions about the intention behind the arrest and the broader implications for journalists working on sensitive stories.

Why does MCK view Peter Mwita’s arrest as a threat to press freedom?

The Council described the arrest as a blatant attempt to silence whistleblowers and push journalists toward self censorship. It warned that targeting journalists for their work on matters of public concern creates a chilling effect that undermines accountability and transparency in society.

MCK emphasized that law enforcement agencies should not misuse their authority to deny citizens their constitutional rights. This includes the right to bail and the right to practice journalism without fear of harassment or retaliation. The Council stressed that such actions weaken public trust in institutions meant to uphold justice and democracy.

“The Council wishes to remind the national and local government that Articles 33 and 34 of the Constitution protect the freedom of expression and the freedom of the media. These tights are Fundamental to a democratic society,” read the statement in part.

By referencing the Constitution, the Council underscored that media freedom is not a privilege granted by authorities but a right protected by law. It added that journalists play a critical role in informing the public, especially on security issues that directly affect communities.

How does the use of cybercrime laws affect journalists in Kenya?

The Media Council also raised concern over the growing use of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act to intimidate and harass journalists. It described this trend as unfortunate and unconstitutional, noting that such laws should not be weaponised to suppress legitimate journalism.

According to the Council, any attempt by police or local administrators to force Mwita to reveal his sources or to intimidate him into silence would violate professional journalistic standards and the Constitution of Kenya. Protecting sources, the Council noted, is a core principle of journalism and essential for safeguarding the flow of information in the public interest.

MCK further demanded an immediate end to all forms of harassment directed at Mwita. It urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure that officers clearly understand and respect the boundary between law enforcement responsibilities and media freedom.

The Council’s statement reflects growing concern within the media industry about the safety and independence of journalists in Kenya. By speaking out, MCK reaffirmed its role as a defender of press freedom and a watchdog against actions that threaten democratic values.

By Lucky Anyanje