MCK calls out politicians intimidating journalists ahead of elections

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has expressed concerns over the rise in cases of harassment against journalists and media outlets in the lead up to the August General Election.

Council CEO David Omwoyo in a statement issued Thursday acknowledged that they had noted 45 cases of press freedom violations this year alone, most of which were politically related.

“The Council is disturbed that such threats are likely to incite the public and political supporters against the media and may thus expose journalists and media practitioners to violations of their rights as they go about their rightful duties,” said Omwoyo.

“Attacks against and intimidation of the media contravenes Articles 34 and 35 of the Constitution on the Freedom of Media and Access to Information.”

Among the cases include the attack by Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi on Citizen TV, who took to social media to ​​accuse the broadcaster of being biased in covering the rival Azimio La Umoja and Kenya Kwanza political coalitions.

“We particularly take note of the latest verbal attack against Citizen TV by Kapseret Member of Parliament Hon Oscar Sudi via a social media post meant to intimidate the editorial discretion of the station,” said Omwoyo.

The council also took note of Mugirango South Member of Parliament Silvanus Osoro’s recent remarks where he also castigated the media outlet for alleged biased reporting. 

“We advise politicians and the public that Kenya's media and journalists are guided by a professional code of conduct, with sufficient mechanisms for self-regulation, both as an industry or at personal level,” the statement added.

Omwoyo further directed anyone who takes issue with media conduct to instead seek redress through the Media Complaints Commission.