Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged journalists to familiarise themselves with relevant media laws to promote informed reporting on the General Election.
Speaking at a training in Kisumu, MCK Director for Media Training and Development Mr Victor Bwire said despite articles 33,34 and 35 of the Constitution on freedom of speech, freedom of press and Access to Information, there are other laws that journalists should adhere to.
He also mentioned the MCK election reporting manual as an important tool in ensuring media practitioners work within the principles and core values of journalism while considering issues of conflict-sensitive reporting, safety, and disinformation.
“Laws on election offences and reasonable allocation of airtime by media during election campaigns is important in ensuring core values of journalism are observed”, said Mr Bwire.
MCK Senior Officer for Training Standards and Curriculum Development Mr Julius Sigei urged media practitioners to master the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya as it guides their day-to-day reporting on elections.
“Reporters should observe the Code of Conduct and not abuse office by intimidating and threatening their sources”, he said.
The Council continues to undertake activities aimed at educating journalists and members of the public on the important role and need for professional ethical journalism in the country, especially in relation to national cohesion and national development ahead of the 2022 General Elections.