Judiciary condemns harassment of journalists covering Babu Owino arraignment

There was commotion at the Milimani Law Courts on Friday morning as Embakasi East MP Babu Owino turned up in court for his bail ruling. 

Milimani Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina released him on Sh100,000 bail in the subversive case linked to the ongoing anti-government demonstrations by the Azimio coalition. 

Chaos erupted in the courtroom after the magistrate freed Mr Owino on bail. The chaos ensued as the lawmaker's family and lawyers tried to process his cash bail.

The Judiciary has since come out to condemn the harassment of journalists covering the arraignment of the MP at Milimani Law Courts.

It asked police to uphold proper conduct within court precincts.

“We condemn in the strongest terms any harassment of the media in their line of duty, anywhere and particularly within court precincts,” the Judiciary said in a statement released on July 21.

“We expect all persons, especially our justice sector partners, to exhibit the highest standards of conduct in our courtrooms and within court precincts. The conduct of all justice actors must at all times promote and uphold the rule of law and build public confidence in the justice system.

“The Judiciary reaffirms its commitment to upholding media freedom, the rights of journalists, and the rule of law.”

Harrassment

After his release, the MP's supporters who were in court began celebrating as they left the court where chaos had broken out.

As anti-riot police confronted the supporters of Mr Owino a Standard photographer was assaulted in the commotion.

In a video that was taken, the police officers can be seen pushing Collins Kweyu away, causing him to fall while holding his camera.

Speaking to Nation after the incident, Mr Kweyu admitted that he was manhandled by the anti-riot police, who continued to push him even after he identified himself as a journalist.

"Yes. They pushed me. My left knee was injured and I'm still in pain. I identified myself as a journalist but they were not willing to listen to me," said Mr Kweyu.