Muturi Calls for Protection of Journalists and Transparency in IEBC Tendering

By Monyonge Kebati

 Democratic Party leader and former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has called for greater protection of journalists covering political events, condemning attacks and intimidation targeting members of the media.

Speaking during a “Meet the People Tour” and the launch of DP offices in Murang’a County, Muturi said the harassment and assault of journalists by suspected goons amounted to a violation of constitutional freedoms.

He urged the government to take firm action to ensure journalists can carry out their duties without intimidation, threats or violence, saying media freedom remains a key pillar of democracy.

Muturi also raised concerns over the procurement and tendering process at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), calling for greater transparency to restore public confidence in the management of elections.

He said the public should be able to scrutinise the electoral body’s procurement processes, warning that secrecy could fuel suspicions of interference with the electoral process.

Muturi further criticised President William Ruto, alleging that there are attempts to manipulate the votes of Kenyans if adequate safeguards and openness are not put in place.

He called for an open, transparent and credible electoral process ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Muturi urges opposition unity

The DP leader also called on opposition parties to set aside their differences and unite against what he described as a common political enemy ahead of the next elections.

Muturi hit out at President Ruto over claims that former President Uhuru Kenyatta is supporting the Kenya Kwanza administration, accusing the Head of State of being in denial about the political situation in the country.

He insisted that opposition forces remain united and urged leaders to work together rather than allow political differences to weaken their collective efforts.

Muturi also criticised the government’s healthcare reforms, particularly the Social Health Authority (SHA), arguing that many Kenyans continue to face difficulties accessing healthcare services.

He questioned how the government could claim widespread public support while ordinary citizens were still struggling with access to essential health services.

The former Attorney General urged opposition leaders to put aside personal and political differences and build a united front ahead of the 2027 General Election, which is expected to be increasingly competitive as political parties intensify their mobilisation across the country.