Published on April 29, 2025 by Kariuki Mwangi
Last Updated on 12 months by Kariuki Mwangi
The Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) has threatened to boycott coverage of Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKF KPL) matches following the assault of veteran Daily Nation photojournalist Chris Omollo by security officers during the Gor Mahia FC vs. Mara Sugar match on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Dandora Stadium in Nairobi.
During the incident, Omollo lost consciousness after being struck on the head by an officer, this despite having properly identified himself. He remains hospitalized in Nairobi, receiving treatment for his injuries. Witnesses stated that journalists had been directed to use a separate entrance to avoid the congested main gate, and Omollo was attacked while entering the field. The assault left him unconscious and damaged his spectacles. Concerns over the incident were heightened by the fact that Omollo had previously undergone head surgery.
In a statement, SJAK President James Waindi condemned the attack as “unprovoked and unacceptable,” stressing the vital role journalists play in sports development.
“We strongly condemn this brutal assault. The safety of sports journalists must be prioritized at all times. We demand immediate disciplinary action against the officer involved,” Waindi said.
He warned that if the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Ministry of Interior fail to act swiftly to address escalating match-day violence, SJAK will mobilize journalists nationwide to boycott KPL matches and enforce a total media blackout on football coverage.
