Police say 'minimal force' used to disperse media bill protest

Police on Thursday defended the use of what they described as “minimal force” in dispersing a protest by journalists and members of the public outside Parliament on Tuesday.

The demonstration was held against the media control bill passed in Parliament, which grants broad powers to regulate the press and online expression. Journalists were joined by some members of the public and opposition MDP in calling for the bill’s withdrawal.

According to participants, police made repeated attempts to disperse the crowd. Protesters reported that journalists and civilians sustained injuries, with images and videos circulating on social media showing police using force.

In a statement, police said the operation was conducted to disperse an “illegal gathering” in an area where demonstrations had not been authorised, which included schools and the security cordon of Parliament. They added that some protesters attempted to obstruct officers and enter the restricted area.

The police said:

“At all stages of the operation, police acted in accordance with procedures, using the minimum amount of force necessary to maintain order and ensure the safety of protesters and officers,” the statement said.

Police also denied allegations of excessive force, saying the images circulated online were taken from “a specific angle” by an individual participating in the unauthorised protest.

Despite this, journalists at the scene reported injuries, including bruises and torn clothing, during the dispersal.