NMG photo journalist Sila Kiplagat hailed for nice maandamano shot

Nation Media Group (NMG) photojournalist Sila Kiplagat has earned praise for his stellar shot showing police firing teargas at a crowd of protestors in Nairobi. In the shot taken on March 20, 2023 during the protests called by Azimio leader Raila Odinga, there were two security officers at bay along the City Hallway. The shot that has widely circulated has garnered varying opinions with Azimio la Umoja supporters claiming that the police were using excessive power while others calling it an award-winning photo. Kiplagat is among many journalists under the NMG who have been tasked to keep Kenyans up to date with the happenings of the much-awaited protests. Here are some of the comments; "I am here to commend the photographer. What a clean shot!" wrote Joyce Ogola. "What a shot... Cameraman knew the job," said Dickson Bor. "Buy lunch for the camera person. That's an award-winning shot," tweeted Linda Ogutu. Also read: Maandamano Monday! Raila speaks "The photojournalist knew he only had one job! He nailed it," wrote Mark Kalomba. "Even trees are demonstrating," said Charles Omondi. "Photograpy community we gather here to honor this legend," wrote Larry Chege. "That cameraman should shoot a documentary for my life....nice shot," said Jeff Koech. "Perfect shot, the teeth say it all," tweeted Kelvin. The protests come despite an order by Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei declaring them illegal. "You are allowed to do all that is allowed by the constitution, you shall notify the regulatory officer of such intent, at least three days but not more than 14 days before the proposed date of such a meeting or procession. Therefore, any person that will participate in the planned demonstration is notified to do so peacefully as guided by the constitution of Kenya," he said. Monday's protests were a battle characterized by stone-throwing, teargas, and water cannons sprayed between rioters and police. Mr Odinga's motorcade was barred from accessing Nairobi's CBD. In his speech, Mr Odinga noted that every Monday would be a protesting day until their complaints are heard. Also read: Maandamano: Raila Odinga’s convoy teargassed in Nairobi