Journalists have been urged to uphold professionalism in line in constitutional provisions.
Senate ICT Committee Chairman Hon Allan Chesang says media workers should adhere to the Code of Conduct for the Practice of Journalism in Kenya as enshrined in the Media Council Act of 2013 which provides journalists with guidelines on how to conduct themselves professionally and in line with acceptable standards.
Mr Chesang who is also Trans Nzoia County Senator told journalists based in the area that his Committee remains committed to addressing various challenges the media industry is currently facing.
He urged stakeholders in the media industry to prioritise media workers’ welfare, saying issues such as poor or delayed remuneration could compromise ethical standards in the media.
“I urge media organisations to take care of their staff by paying them as per their contractual obligations. Motivation of staff plays a key role in ensuring professional coverage of matters of national interest”, he told journalists during a sensitisation session organised by the Media Council of Kenya in Kitale town.
He urged the journalists to ensure they are accredited by the Council that has rolled out new accreditation cards with enhanced security features in a bid to address invasion of the industry by imposters.
The Senator at the same time urged duty bearers to grant journalists access to information to ensure balanced reporting from the counties.
“It is critical that journalists are given the right information to enable accurate reporting. This is especially important due to the complexities at the counties”, said Senator Chesang.
He urged the local journalists to work together and embrace unity of purpose, saying the county’s visibility can only be projected appropriately if journalists collaborate.
He pledged to support journalists countrywide through creation of safe spaces and conducive environment.
“I will rally my colleagues at the Senate ICT Committee towards supporting media in Kenya. This will include setting up of information hubs to facilitate journalists’ work”, he said.