Dozens of journalists in Kenya held rallies across the country on Wednesday, protesting the increasing attacks on media freedom and the perceived heavy-handed tactics of the government. The protests come as the country has been rocked by weeks of anti-government demonstrations, which have resulted in deadly violence and widespread anger against President William Ruto's government.

Journalists, many wearing white, carried signs reading "Journalists lives matter", "Shoot not the messenger", and "End the brutality" as they marched through several towns and cities. The protests were sparked by attacks on journalists covering the demonstrations, among other grievances.

At least 50 people have been killed and over 400 wounded since the start of the protests on June 18, according to rights groups. Journalists have been targeted by police, who have used tear gas, batons, and water cannon to disperse crowds. The attacks have eroded trust in the security forces and raised concerns about the government's commitment to media freedom.

The Kenya Editors Guild has warned that freedom of the media and freedom of expression are under threat, while Reporters Without Borders (RSF) ranks Kenya 102nd out of 180 countries in terms of press freedom. Investigations into abuses committed against journalists rarely result in convictions, and police are often accused of using excessive force and carrying out unlawful killings.

The protests highlight the growing tensions between the government and the media in Kenya, a country that was once seen as a beacon of democracy in East Africa.