BAKE calls for probe into abduction of Standard editor Alex Kiprotich
The Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) has called for an immediate and independent investigation into the abduction of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich, saying the incident raises serious concerns over the safety of journalists in the country.
Kiprotich was intercepted by armed men along the Gilgil-Nakuru highway on the night of September 1 before he was abducted and later dumped near Masinga Dam, according to BAKE.
The association joined Kiprotich’s family and the Standard Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Chaacha Mwita, in welcoming his safe return but warned that the incident pointed to a worrying pattern of intimidation targeting journalists.
BAKE said the circumstances surrounding the abduction suggested that Kiprotich was targeted because of his journalistic work.
“The interrogation about editorial processes makes clear this was an attack on journalistic work,” the association said.
The organisation noted that the incident was the second reported attempt on Kiprotich’s life this year.
In June, armed men reportedly attempted to seize the journalist as he drove to work. BAKE said reports that his latest captors questioned him about Standard Group’s news-gathering processes and editorial decision-making raised serious concerns that required scrutiny.
Growing concerns over journalists’ safety
BAKE said Kiprotich’s ordeal was not an isolated incident, but part of a wider pattern of harassment, intimidation and violence against journalists and content creators in Kenya.
The association said journalists had continued to face arrests, physical attacks and threats, particularly when covering sensitive issues or working during politically charged periods.
It warned that such actions could undermine the media’s role in informing the public and holding those in authority to account.
BAKE also highlighted a landmark Court of Appeal decision delivered in March 2026 in a case it brought, in which the court declared Sections 22 and 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act unconstitutional.
The court found that broad and vague provisions criminalising “false information” could be used to suppress legitimate journalism and public discourse.
However, BAKE said physical threats against journalists appeared to persist despite the legal protections affirmed by the courts.
Calls for government action
The association called on the government to order an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into Kiprotich’s abduction and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted.
It further urged the government to respect media freedoms and uphold Article 34 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of the media.
BAKE also called for enhanced protection of journalists before, during and after elections, noting their role as watchdogs and providers of accurate information.
“Attacks on journalists are attacks on the public’s right to know,” BAKE said, warning that democracy cannot thrive when those informing the public live in fear.
The association said it would continue advocating for a safe environment for journalists, bloggers and other content creators in Kenya.
