[Patriots]

Journalist attacked over story on minister

Published on September 28, 2007, 12:00 am


By Stephen Makabila

Youths alleged to be supporters of Cabinet minister, Dr Noah Wekesa, attacked a Kitale based Standard journalist.

The attackers pounced on Mr Osinde Obare outside Kitale’s Barclays Bank.

Amid kicks and punches, the youths warned the journalist against "tainting the minister’s image".

"They accused me of writing damning stories about the minister as they rained blows and punches on me," said Obare shortly after recording a statement with the police.

Obare said he could identify five of his attackers.

The journalist reported the attack to Kitale police station, where he also picked up a P3 form before seeking medical attention at the Kitale District Hospital.

"The attackers warned me of further attacks if I report negatively about the minister," he said.

Obare had two weeks ago reported how the minister’s constituents heckled him over CDF allocation at a fundraiser.

During the meeting, some of those in attendance shouted "CDF, CDF!" as the minister, who is also the local MP (Kwanza), addressed the gathering.