The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the arrest of journalist Peter Mwita Maseke.
In a statement on January 1, MCK said Mwita is who is working for Alshifaa Media Group based in Mombasa has been detained under unclear circumstances.
“MCK wants Mr Peter Mwita Maseke, a journalist working for Alshifaa Media Group based in Mombasa County, to be given a free bond following his detention by police under unclear circumstances,” reads part of the statement.
MCK Holding Paul Mwita
MCK said police are holding Mwita in relation to the authorship of information on the organisation of criminal gangs operating in the Kisauni area in Mombasa County, which was circulated on the WhatsApp platform.
Mwita was summoned to record a statement on December 30, 2025, which later led to his arrest on December 31.
MCK explained that the arrest of Mwita for journalistic work relating to matters of public interest is a blatant attempt to silence whistleblowers and push journalists into self-censorship.
“Police should not misuse or deny other Kenyans’ legitimate rights, including the right to bail,” MCK said.
The Council reminded the national and local government that Articles 33 and 34 of the Constitution protect the freedom of expression and the freedom of the media.
These rights are fundamental to a democratic society.
Misuse of Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act
Additionally, MCK said the use of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act to intimidate and harass journalists is unfortunate.
“Any attempt by the police of local administration to compel Mr Mwita to reveal his sources or to intimidate him into silence is a direct breach of these professional standards and a violation of the Constitution of Kenya,” MCK added.
The Council has demanded the immediate cessation of harassment against Mwita and calls upon the Inspector General of Police to ensure that officers respect the boundary between law enforcement and media freedom.

Journalist Peter Mwita Maseke. PHOTO/MCK.