At least four journalists were injured and scores of attendees lost valuables after police officers and hired goons reportedly assaulted media personnel and stole from the public Sunday Morning during the 62nd Madaraka Day Celebrations.
Violence broke out as early as 5 a.m. when groups of youth allegedly ferried in by politicians to fill the stadium began targeting attendees, stealing mobile phones, money, and other valuables.
Two Standard Group journalists, an NTV reporter, and a Royal Media Services journalist were among those assaulted.
The Kisumu Journalists Network condemned the attacks, calling them a blatant violation of press freedom.
The chaos extended beyond the stadium. Reports indicate that large crowds some arriving as early as the Saturday night were forced to wait outside the stadium with no sleeping arrangements. Security eventually opened the gates at 7 p.m., hours ahead of schedule, due to the growing crowds.
Meanwhile, several roads in Homa Bay were closed and traffic redirected to ensure access to the event venue.
