The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations into the arrest and brief detention of journalist Ode Francis while he was covering protests against the recent increase in fuel prices, raising renewed questions about police accountability and media freedom in Kenya.
In a press release dated October 22, 2026, the police oversight agency said it initiated investigations on its own motion on October 20, seeking to establish the circumstances surrounding Francis’s arrest and determine whether the officers involved acted within the law.
The authority confirmed that it contacted Francis on October 21 as part of its preliminary inquiries into the incident.
“The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) on 20th October 2026 initiated investigations, on its own motion, into the arrest and brief detention of journalist Mr. Ode Francis by police officers,” the statement said.
Francis was covering demonstrations against rising fuel prices when the incident occurred. However, IPOA’s statement did not provide further details about the specific circumstances of the arrest, the duration of the detention or the identities of the officers involved.
IPOA to visit Central Police Station
As investigations continue, IPOA plans to visit Central Police Station, examine relevant police records and obtain accounts from officers deployed to manage public order during the protests.
The inquiries will focus on establishing what happened during the arrest and detention and assessing whether the conduct of the officers complied with applicable laws and established policing procedures.
“These inquiries will seek to establish the circumstances of the arrest and detention and determine whether the actions of the officers involved complied with the law and established policing procedures,” IPOA said.
The authority has not announced any findings or determined whether the officers involved committed misconduct. Its investigations are intended to establish the facts before any recommendations are made.
Media freedom and constitutional rights
The investigation places renewed attention on the constitutional protections afforded to journalists covering demonstrations and other public events in Kenya.
IPOA cited Article 244 of the Constitution, which requires the National Police Service to uphold professionalism and discipline, promote transparency and accountability, and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The authority also highlighted Articles 33, 34 and 35, which protect freedom of expression, media freedom and access to information, respectively.
IPOA said investigations involving journalists and police officers are important for strengthening accountability and protecting constitutional rights.
“The Authority reaffirms its commitment to independently and impartially investigating incidents involving police officers and journalists in the course of their professional duties,” the statement said.
Journalists frequently operate in environments where police officers are managing crowds, enforcing public order and responding to demonstrations. The circumstances surrounding Francis’s arrest will therefore be central to determining whether the officers’ actions were consistent with their legal obligations.
IPOA promises recommendations after probe
IPOA said it would make appropriate recommendations to relevant institutions once the investigations are concluded. These could include accountability measures if evidence establishes culpability.
The authority also indicated that it would consider recommendations aimed at improving cooperation between police officers and members of the media, particularly during public order operations.
“IPOA will also consider recommendations aimed at strengthening cooperation and professional working relationships between the police and the media,” the statement said.
The agency acknowledged that police officers and journalists have different responsibilities but often work in the same environments, especially during protests and other public gatherings.
Its proposed recommendations could therefore address both individual accountability, where warranted, and broader professional practices governing interactions between security personnel and journalists.
Investigation outcome awaited
The investigation comes amid public demonstrations against increased fuel prices, during which journalists play a key role in documenting events and informing the public.
For now, IPOA has not issued a conclusion on the legality of Francis’s arrest or indicated when its investigations will be completed. Any determination of wrongdoing will depend on the evidence gathered and the findings of the inquiry.
The authority reiterated its commitment to promoting professional policing and protecting the rights of Kenyans.
“IPOA remains committed to promoting accountable and professional policing while safeguarding the constitutional rights and freedoms of all Kenyans,” the statement concluded.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding Francis’s arrest and whether further action against any officers will be recommended.
