The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has permitted journalists, editors, and media professionals to seek elective positions in the upcoming 2027 General Election, introducing stringent protocols to preserve the integrity of the media sector.
Through a Friday press release, the Council highlighted that effective national governance draws from diverse professional expertise, observing that just as legislative and executive branches benefit from professionals in fields like law, engineering, and medicine, robust leadership emerges from multi-sectoral representation.
The Council underscored the distinctive role of media practitioners in society as they manage “the essential platforms, airwaves, and narratives that mold public opinion and political dialogue.”
The statement noted that this significant influence demands “enhanced scrutiny and specialized procedures to mitigate conflicts of interest and create equitable conditions for all political aspirants.”
To assist journalists entering politics, MCK is developing a Special Governance Support Program to provide aspiring candidates with leadership and policy instruments for successful campaigning.
The Council encouraged all media professionals interested in political office to formally declare their intentions by emailing info@mediacouncil.or.ke.
While promoting democratic involvement, MCK emphasized that “journalism’s foundation continues to be fairness, balance, and complete objectivity. The media industry’s credibility and trust must be vigorously preserved to uphold public confidence throughout the electoral period.”
The Council is completing comprehensive Guidelines on Media Conduct and Reporting for the 2027 General Election. These will establish mandatory departure timelines for candidates resigning from media positions, immediate suspension from hosting, anchoring, or reporting once political ambitions are announced, and editorial standards to ensure impartial and equal coverage of all candidates without preferential treatment for former journalists.
To secure broad industry support, MCK will organize a Validation Workshop with editorial leaders within 14 days, with the finalized guidelines scheduled to be published and officially recorded within 30 days.
“The MCK remains dedicated to nurturing a thriving democracy where media professionals can move into public office transparently, ethically, and without undermining the well-established credibility of Kenyan journalism,” stated David Omwoyo, Chief Executive Officer and Council Secretary.