The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) on Tuesday directed three media houses, Royal Media Services, K24, and the Star to take action on three journalists who reportedly fought at a public event in Siaya.
While condemning the squabbles, the media regulator disclosed that it had already completed its investigations on the matter and would take necessary measures against the journalists involved.
“The Council has already investigated the incident and urges the relevant media organisations to equally undertake a comprehensive investigation and take appropriate disciplinary action against those involved,” noted MCK Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo in a statement.
"The Council unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, including those perpetrated by members of the press against their own or on members of the public."
MCK while addressing the matter, further warned that any accredited journalists engaging in such altercations risk losing their registration with the Council.
"Journalists have a responsibility to conduct themselves with integrity and decorum, even in the face of aggression," noted the MCK CEO.
"We encourage all journalists to uphold their commitment to truth, accuracy, and objectivity, and to prioritise respectful dialogue and constructive criticism over personal attacks or violence."
To resolve the stalemate, the council vowed to offer support and assistance to the journalists involved in this incident. MCK urged the journalists to seek mediation or other forms of conflict resolution to address the underlying issues to avoid future violence.
"We also confirm that the three journalists are fully accredited by the Media Council of Kenya and are free and should be enabled to work in any part of Kenya irrespective of their place of origin," MCK noted.
Nonetheless, the media council also warned media houses against publishing one-sided stories that confuse and conceal facts.
"The Council remains committed to working with all stakeholders to create a more respectful and collaborative media environment. We believe that journalists can, and should, work together to hold power to account, inform the public, and contribute to a better society," the media council noted.
"We believe that journalists can, and should, work together to hold power to account, inform the public, and contribute to a better society," the media council noted."
Reports alleged that the three journalists, a female K24 reporter, and two male colleagues from the Star and Ramogi FM clashed at an MPs event.
The trio reportedly fell out over the coverage of the event, with the Star journalist incurring injuries to his head.
