There is need to align media disputes resolution with the fast-changing media landscape and consumer patterns.
Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo says treatment of media-related disputes calls for creative approaches.
“We need to reflect at this time of creative media regulation, including media-related disputes that must reflect current times but which is within the confines of the law”, Mr Omwoyo said during an induction session for newly appointed members of the Media Complaints Commission.
He urged the Commission to engage more in advising media consumers on responsible media consumption, saying “such understanding will lead to an enlightened media industry and public, ultimately ensuring responsible journalism in the country”.
Mr Omwoyo decried rising breaches to journalistic ethics, saying this has affected media standards.
“In the rapidly evolving media landscape, unethical reporting has emerged as the most pressing concern, overshadowing even the powerful influence of media framing and agenda setting”, he said.
He urged the Commission to appreciate the local and international media dynamics to enable its effective operation.
“With the digital age comes new challenges in Internet governance and content theft. To effectively address these issues when they arise, the Media Complaints Commission is necessary”, said Mr Omwoyo.
Immediate former chairperson of the Complaints Commission William Oketch underscored the critical place of the body in shaping media operations in Kenya.
“The Commission has been set as a unique body different from the court process with the intent to speed up resolution of media-related disputes. I urge you to work together as you anchor public interest as your true north principally based on freedom of expression and professionalism to compact the resolution of cases”, he said.
High Court judge Justice Alfred Mabeya who took the Commissioners through a session on effective proceedings and judgment writing urged the Commissioners to uphold principles that will ensure they remain accountable for their conduct in adjudicating media disputes.