Supreme Court Justice Isaac Lenaola
Media stakeholders have demanded immediate reforms, enhanced journalist protections, and renewed dedication to ethical reporting as the nation enters a pivotal political phase.
Addressing World Press Freedom Day at Strathmore University, Supreme Court Justice Isaac Lenaola emphasized that press freedom is not optional in a democracy but a collective constitutional duty.
He cautioned that precision in reporting is insufficient, noting that the tone and presentation of news can substantially influence public conduct and national stability.
Accuracy alone is not sufficient. The manner in which news is conveyed holds equal importance. How information is presented can affect public actions, requiring journalists to be intentional about their responsibility, he stated.
Justice Lenaola warned that increasing political intolerance is diminishing institutional trust and reducing the nation’s capacity for peaceful conflict resolution, noting that any effort to diminish media freedom ultimately harms democracy itself.
He reaffirmed the judiciary’s responsibility in protecting constitutional rights and ensuring journalists function within a secure, independent setting.
Regarding policy, the government signaled comprehensive reforms intended to fortify the media sector amidst rapid technological transformation.
Central to these efforts is a thorough examination of key legal frameworks, including the Kenya Information and Communications Act and the Media Council Act, along with an extensive national press freedom policy.
The reforms aim to guarantee that developing technologies, including artificial intelligence, enhance rather than diminish public confidence in the media.
The Media Council of Kenya provided an assessment of challenges confronting journalists, with Chairman Maina Muiruri disclosing that the Council had recorded numerous press freedom violations during the past year, encompassing harassment, intimidation, and physical assaults.
He identified an emerging pattern where political figures purportedly utilize intermediaries to suppress dissenting perspectives, characterizing the trend as profoundly concerning and unacceptable.
We have witnessed an alarming new pattern where politicians employ hired persons to threaten and silence journalists. This is unacceptable, and we condemn it without reservation, he stated.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, Muiruri cautioned that such violations will likely escalate, making it essential for all stakeholders to unite in protecting journalists and preserving democratic principles.
MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo emphasized the rapidly evolving media environment, citing the most recent State of the Media Report.
He observed that social media has surpassed traditional platforms as the primary news source for many Kenyans, indicating a significant shift in information consumption patterns.
Although public trust in the media remains comparatively high, Omwoyo indicated that concerns about bias continue, especially in government-related coverage.
Sixty-three percent of Kenyans cannot distinguish between AI-generated content and authentic material, and sixty-one percent have utilized AI-enabled media platforms, he pointed out, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced media literacy and transparency.
This, he explained, highlights the critical need for transparency, ethical standards, and public education to preserve credibility in an increasingly intricate information landscape.
Security agencies also addressed the connection between law enforcement and the media, with National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga dismissing the idea that security and press freedom are contradictory.
Rather, he stated that both represent constitutional obligations requiring balance with professionalism and integrity, and reaffirmed the Service’s dedication to safeguarding journalists and enabling them to work without fear, while also advocating for responsible reporting that does not endanger public safety.
Kenya Union of Journalists Deputy Secretary General Vincent Owino criticized assaults on journalists, referencing recent violent incidents during demonstrations as proof of the sector’s susceptibility.
He advocated for increased investment in journalism through equitable compensation, training, and mentorship, asserting that a protected and well-supported workforce is fundamental for a flourishing media sector.
Kenya Editors Guild President Zubeida Kananu stressed the significance of accountability and professionalism, instructing journalists to settle conflicts through established procedures and avoiding both physical and digital intimidation.
She emphasized that a peaceful and informed society relies on a media sector that is both unrestricted and accountable.
The Kenya Correspondents Association shared these views, calling for enhanced cooperation among government, media stakeholders, and civil society to establish a secure and favorable atmosphere for journalism.
The media serves communities and the public good; and the media must be responsive and attentive to various segments of the communities they serve, where the vulnerable, the marginalized, and minorities find opportunities to express their demands for good governance, accountability, and socio-economic rights, stated KCA National Chairman Hudson Araka Matara.
The association underscored the media’s crucial function in elevating the voices of marginalized communities and advancing accountability, urging all participants to cultivate an environment free from threats, intimidation, and censorship.
It also cautioned against the perils of misinformation and disinformation, especially as the nation moves toward the 2027 elections, and requested improved information access to facilitate accurate reporting.
In Eldoret, sports journalists were encouraged to reconsider how they interact with athletes and narrate their stories, with particular focus on empathy, depth, and ethical behavior.
The forum, also organized by MCK, emphasized the necessity of moving from outcome-centered coverage to storytelling that captures the human experiences within sports.
Veteran journalist Elius Makori encouraged reporters to invest in preparation and knowledge, noting that compelling storytelling commences long before interviews occur.
He highlighted the value of asking insightful questions that prompt athletes to share significant experiences, rather than adopting superficial or adversarial methods.
Good questions do not merely seek answers; they generate meaningful conversations, he stated, adding that trust between journalists and athletes is vital for genuine reporting.
MCK Nakuru Regional Coordinator Mecha Joseph reinforced the appeal for ethical journalism, stressing that sports coverage must be based on verified facts and must not become a source of harm or pressure for athletes.
He urged journalists to demonstrate sensitivity, especially when covering individuals experiencing setbacks, injuries, or personal difficulties.
According to Mecha, the true measure of journalism is not how it celebrates success, but rather how it addresses moments of vulnerability.
Sports journalism expert Benard Rotich emphasized the opportunities offered by digital platforms, encouraging journalists to adopt new formats such as podcasts and online features to broaden their audience and ensure sustainability.
He observed that journalism’s future will hinge on the capacity to adapt to evolving audience preferences while preserving high standards of quality and credibility.
Senior athletics coach Nicholas Koech offered valuable perspectives on the world of athletes, explaining the discipline, sacrifice, and mental fortitude needed to compete at elite levels.
His perspective gave journalists a more profound understanding of the contexts they report on, facilitating more precise and compassionate storytelling.