The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has called on county governments to prioritise transparency by proactively sharing information with the public and media.
MCK’s Meru Regional Coordinator Jackson Karanja underscored the critical role of timely and accurate information in promoting accountability and spurring county development.
Karanja advocated for open governance, pressing counties to ensure essential information is readily accessible to journalists and citizens.
“Withholding information undermines public trust, impairs decision-making and hinders development progress. Access to reliable and timely information is the foundation of democracy and effective governance. Counties must prioritise disclosure to foster transparency and accountability”, he said at a forum organised by Katiba Institute in Maralal, Samburu County.
He highlighted counties’ constitutional obligation under Article 35 of the Kenyan Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to access state-held information.
Adapting to a changing media landscape, Karanja urged counties to utilise digital platforms and innovative tools for efficient communication.
“Open governance is a necessity, not a choice, for county advancement. Partnering with the media can enhance public participation and keep citizens informed”, he asserted.
Karanja also emphasised the media’s vital role in disseminating information about government projects, policies, and spending, encouraging county leaders to establish robust communication channels with journalists.
Patricia Joseph, Programmes Manager at Katiba Institute, urged county leaders to ensure inclusivity in information access, particularly for marginalised groups like persons with disabilities.
“Counties must adopt strategies such as sign language interpretation, braille materials, and digital accessibility to ensure all citizens can access critical information”, she said.
The forum united government officials, media representatives and civil society members to strategise on improving county-level communication and public access to information.