The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) called out government officials over their increased attacks on journalists, a day after Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused the media of alleged bias towards him.
In a statement dated Friday, February 24, the media council noted an increasing trend where the media and journalists were attacked while in the line of duty.
MCK Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Omwoyo noted that the constant attacks threatened the freedom of the press and would demoralise journalists.
He also indicated that the public's media perception would be highly influenced.
"Attacking journalists, we believe, is a distraction from important issues that require attention and action.
"The Council takes such acts as attempts to silence or intimidate the media from undertaking its rightful duty. This, on the flip side, can damage the legitimacy of the government and erode public trust in its ability to govern fairly and effectively," read the statement in part.
On the other hand, leaders who have issues with media coverage were advised to raise the same with the Media Complaints Commission.
"Instead, they should work to foster a climate of mutual respect and collaboration with the press, which can help to strengthen democracy and promote the public good," read the statement in part.
The statement by MCK came a day after Gachagua accused the media of bias, noting that he was not getting favourable coverage from the media.
He also alleged that unnamed people were compromising the media.
"Media people, please stand by your leadership style. You stated everything about me, including that I'm a villager, unkept, I don't know how to dress and useless.
"All those things are ignored, the people of Kenya ignored you too and elected me as Deputy President," he stated.
Former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi was also criticised by Gachagua over a story done by Standard Media Group (SG) - a news outlet linked to his family.
"I've seen The Standard owned by Gideon Moi, print a page that Rigathi Gachagua is a rogue DP. Gideon Moi is an Azimio fellow. You don't expect him to say anything good about us," Gachagua stated.
