The Police Reforms Working Group-Kenya (PRWG-Kenya) has called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to drop the charges against four filmmakers who were arrested for allegedly publishing false information. The filmmakers, Nicholas Gichuki, Brian Adagala, Mark Karubiu, and Chris Wamae, were detained following the release of their documentary Blood Parliament, which has raised controversy due to its portrayal of the Kenyan government and the police’s role in violent protests.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Reforms Working Group argued that the filmmakers should not be persecuted for exercising their constitutional right to freedom of expression. The group also condemned the seizure of the filmmakers’ equipment during the police raid at their offices in Karen on Friday, demanding the return of the materials and the dropping of charges related to “false publication.”
While the filmmakers have since been released on bond, the Police Reforms Working Group highlighted the broader implications of the crackdown. They emphasized that the government should focus on more pressing issues, such as the ongoing economic struggles, a burdensome tax regime, and a failing health sector, instead of targeting critical voices. The group further stated that the ongoing suppression of free speech only deepens public distrust and disillusionment.
The statement also pointed out that the filmmakers’ arrest took place on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, marking a worrying attack on media freedom. The group denounced the actions as a violation of both the Kenyan constitution specifically Articles 33 and 34, which protect freedom of expression and the media and international human rights agreements like the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The Police Reforms Working Group also urged civil society and media organizations to rally behind the filmmakers in support of democratic principles, justice, and media freedom. The filmmakers’ release has sparked widespread debate over the government’s stance on press freedom and the treatment of dissenting voices in Kenya.
