The US Ambassador to Kenya, Marc Dillard, in a statement on Saturday, May 3, 2025, condemned the attempts of government officials to silence journalists.
According to the ambassador, by holding those in power accountable for their actions, journalists play a vital role in protecting society.
“By asking questions and holding those in power accountable, journalists play a vital role in protecting democracy. Sometimes the media’s work makes me officials, including me, uncomfortable, but even with that, I know their work isn’t invaluable”, Dillard said.
“We oppose efforts to silence or censor journalists. And this World Press Freedom Day, as journalists face censorship and threats, the US embassy celebrates the value of a free press that tells the truth boldly”, the ambassador added.
Dillard’s statement comes at a time when four filmmakers linked to the BBC Africa’s controversial documentary ‘Blood Parliament’ were arrested on May 2, 2025.
The four were arrested at their studio in Karen, and the equipment and hard drives were seized and were being detained at Muthaiga and Pangani police stations.
They were later released on Saturday, May 3, 2025, on free bond after being accused of cyberbullying.
