The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged law enforcers to allow journalists access to public interest information.
MCK Nakuru Regional Coordinator Mr Joseph Mecha underscored access to information as key in generating timely, accurate and quality information during a courtesy visit to Nakuru County Commissioner Mr Loyford Kibaara.
“Access to information is key in ensuring information is backed up by firm evidence that is accurate”, said Mr Mecha.
He further mentioned that law enforcers need to allow journalists to access public interest information, failure to which journalists might base their reportage on speculations.
“We urge law enforcers to allow journalists access to public interest information to help them uncover facts and attribute them to trusted sources. If they’re denied access, journalists might base their reporting on speculations, hence misleading the public”, said Mr Mecha.
Mr Kibaara assured the Council of his support in promoting and protecting media freedom and ensuring timely sharing of information.
“I remain committed to relaying information to the media that is accurate and timely to help them report objectively. This will build rapport and encourage a symbiotic working relationship between the police and the media”, said Mr Kibaara.
He added that relaying accurate and timely information prevents the media from accessing information from sources that are not credible, which may trigger unnecessary conflicts between law enforcers and journalists.
Nakuru Journalists Association chairperson Mr Joseph Openda noted that there is a need for government departments to share public interest information. He said the involvement in government programmes will help journalists understand government agendas and expectations when reporting.
“There is a need for various government departments to involve journalists in their programmes by sharing relevant information that will deepen their understanding of such initiatives”, said Mr Openda.
The meeting was convened amid allegations that crime reporters were having a difficult time accessing information from law enforcers in Nakuru.