Gachagua Advocates for Responsible Journalism on World Press Freedom Day

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged journalists to maintain responsibility, objectivity, and vigilance in protecting press freedom, as Kenya joined the global community in observing World Press Freedom Day 2026. Aligning with this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” Gachagua praised the media’s role in informing, educating, and unifying society, while honoring journalists who endanger themselves to uncover truth. “I join the global community in honoring all members of the Fourth Estate who dedicate their time and risk their lives to narrate stories that resonate with humanity, preserve lives, safeguard our environment, and inspire our souls. We owe you our gratitude,” he stated. Gachagua observed that despite Kenya’s substantial progress in press freedom, these achievements require protection as citizens increasingly demand accountability and transformation. He encouraged journalists to stay attentive to public interests and ensure their coverage mirrors the concerns and hopes of Kenyan people. “Do not lower your vigilance, particularly now as Kenyans seek change. Listen to the populace and share their narratives,” he emphasized, noting that a tranquil national setting will be vital as the nation prepares for the 2027 General Election set for August 10. He stressed that press freedom extends beyond the absence of constraints, defining it as an obligation requiring precision, impartiality, and ethical behavior. “A free press is not merely an indicator of democracyit is democracy itself,” he added. Worldwide, World Press Freedom Dayinitiated by the United Nations in 1993functions as a forum to underscore the significance of independent media in fortifying democracy, advancing accountability, and protecting human rights. The occasion also commemorates journalists who have perished or endured persecution while performing their duties. Within Kenya, media professionals voiced comparable views, emphasizing the necessity to preserve journalistic integrity and independence amidst emerging challenges including misinformation, political polarization, and swift technological transformation. Kenya Correspondents Association National Chairman Hudson Araka Matara highlighted the media’s function as a public monitor and a venue for inclusive representation. “The media must stay attentive and considerate to all sectors of society, guaranteeing that the voices of the vulnerable, underrepresented, and minority groups are amplified in the quest for effective governance, accountability, and socio-economic rights,” he stated. The Kenya Editors Guild, for its part, appealed to stakeholders to defend constitutional safeguards for freedom of expression and information access, while maintaining the safety and security of journalists nationwide. Media outlets also honored journalists worldwide and in the region who have encountered threats, intimidation, imprisonment, and even fatality while executing their responsibilities. Their sacrifices, stakeholders noted, reveal the substantial price frequently paid in the quest for truth. The Media Council of Kenya, in partnership with the Association of Media Women in Kenya, Kenya Union of Journalists, and the Kenya Editors Guild, will organize a high-level forum on May 4 at Strathmore University to commemorate the day. The gathering will assemble journalists, scholars, government officials, and civil society participants to address emerging matters in the media environment and outline a strategy for enhancing press freedom in Kenya. Organizers note the forum will offer an opportunity to assess the status of media freedom and examine methods for confronting difficulties while upholding ethical standards and public confidence in journalism. As Kenya participates in the global observance of the day, stakeholders underscored that press freedom is not exclusively a concern for journalists but a shared social obligation. “When journalism operates freely, citizens are more informed and institutions demonstrate greater accountability,” stakeholders observed, urging the populace to endorse trustworthy media and reject misinformation that damages democratic dialogue. World Press Freedom Day 2026 observances are projected to reinforce the core message that a free, autonomous, and responsible press continues to be the foundation of a harmonious, enlightened, and democratic society. The article Gachagua Advocates for Responsible Journalism on World Press Freedom Day was initially published on Kiambu Observer.