The Media Council of Kenya continues with its efforts to strengthen stakeholder relations in a bid to promote professionalism in the media.
A team from the today Council visited new Mombasa County Commissioner Mr John Otieno to appraise him on the work of the Council and to explore ways of cooperation.
The County Commissioner lauded the Council for its efforts to promote professionalism in the media, saying it had contributed to enhanced reportage of matters of national interest.
Mr Otieno underscored the critical role of the media in influencing peace and security. He added that the media is a key player in electoral processes, especially as the country approaches the General Election.
“The media is a major platform for passing information on matters of national interest, including assisting in pushing government agenda. It is therefore important that we build sound working relations to achieve this”, he said.
He urged the media remain impartial in its work, saying the media exists to serve the interests of the citizens.
“The media should not allow themselves to be used to spread fear among the public through alarmist reporting”, said the County Commissioner.
The official at the same time called for responsibility in convergence of news following the growth of social media.
“I urge journalists to ensure they verify any information they come across online before using them as news because of the rampant misinformation on social media platforms”, he said.
Mr Otieno added that his office was open to journalists seeking information to enable them report from informed viewpoints. He encouraged journalists to seek clarification on any security matters they come across with his office.
MCK’s Senior Officer, Grants, Fundraising and Government Relations Mr John Munyiri affirmed the Council’s commitment to collaborate with administrative units to ensure professional reporting of matters of public interest.
“The Council is currently engaging national and county governments and devolved units on several initiatives aimed at enhancing journalists’ skills to report on matters of national interest”, said Mr Munyiri.
The MCK Mombasa Regional Coordinator Ms Maureen Mudi, MCK Manager for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Mr Jerry Abuga, MCK Senior Officer for Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Ms Lorine Achieng and MCK’s Senior Officer, Supply Chain Management Ms Mildred Maina were at the meeting.