The Homa Bay County Government has suspended a senior officer following disturbing allegations involving the abduction and assault of a local journalist, in a move that underscores the county's zero-tolerance stance on abuse of office and attacks on press freedom.
In a statement released on September 15, 2025, the county announced the interdiction of Beatrice Mercy Akugo, a Human Resources Officer in the Department of Roads, Transport, and Public Works.
The disciplinary action comes in response to claims that Akugo was involved in a shocking incident where Habil Onyango, an investigative journalist, was allegedly abducted, held against his will, physically assaulted, and threatened.
“The alleged details of the incident are abhorrent. We are fully cooperating with the National Police Service and relevant agencies to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation is carried out,” the statement read in part.
The county government emphasized that the interdiction is a standard administrative step meant to facilitate an unimpeded investigation. It also reaffirmed its firm commitment to protecting the rights and safety of journalists and upholding democratic principles.
“Journalism is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the safety of journalists is non-negotiable. Any county staff member found guilty of misconduct will face the full force of the law, in addition to internal disciplinary measures,” the statement read.
The county government further assured residents and members of the media of its dedication to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has also condemned the abduction, assault, and intimidation of investigative journalist Habil Onyango, calling for immediate arrests and legal action against those responsible.
According to a press statement released on September 15, 2025, by MCK, Onyango was attacked on September 14, 2025, for his investigative reporting on a fraudulent employment scandal.
The journalist was reportedly lured to a hotel in Homa Bay, where he was ambushed by a group of assailants, including a county official.
MCK added that the attackers physically assaulted Onyango, forced him to inhale bhang, and then abducted him. During the ordeal, his phone and digital equipment were seized, sensitive data deleted, and a fake apology post was published on his social media to discredit his reporting.
“This attack is not only an assault on an individual but a grave threat to press freedom, journalistic integrity, and the rule of law in Kenya,” the statement read in part
The council linked the attack to Onyango’s recent exposé published on westerninsight.co.ke, which uncovered a scam involving fake county government job offers.
After several hours in captivity, Onyango managed to escape by jumping onto a passing bodaboda motorcycle during a moment of distraction.
He later received treatment at Homa Bay County Hospital for soft tissue injuries, which were confirmed by a medical officer.
The incident was officially reported at Homa Bay Police Station under OB number 25/14/25.
However, MCK has urged investigative bodies, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), to take urgent action beyond routine procedures.
“This case involves serious crimes and must be treated with the gravity it deserves,” MCK said.
The council is also calling for the immediate recovery of Onyango’s confiscated devices and guarantees for his personal safety.
MCK emphasized that any grievances against journalists should be channeled through the Media Complaints Commission, not through violence or intimidation, urging civil society, Kenyans, and international partners to speak out against the attack.
Kenya's Constitution (Article 34) and international covenants, like the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, protect media freedom.
