The Media council of Kenya has rubbished government’s accusations that media houses were biased in their coverage in the month of March that was occasioned by opposition led protests.
The council in a report dubbed ‘a balance between Ethics or agenda setting’ the council says the media equally headlined government programs in both the national and local fronts
Government operatives have protested media coverage and even went ahead to threaten to revoke licenses of media houses terming it biased.
“Contrary to the notion that government agenda was not covered by the media, it was evident that media
coverage of government news was equally prioritized as well as the coverage of the protests. The sustained and
programmed nature of the protests in some parts of the country’s necessitated the increased reporting on the
matter, including news reports, discussions, and live coverage.”
The Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition Party brigade in March announced its week long protest that was aimed at maiming normal government operations citing electoral injustices and the rising cost of living.
In the report, MCK argues that the media made efforts to have a balanced reporting by focusing on the details of the protests – the impact of the protests on the economy, the rising cost of living and less on individuals, contrary to previous events.
The CEO David Omwoyo led council has also noted that the media covered states event including DP Gachagua Mount Kenya regions clarion call to end consumption of illicit brew.
“Other topics affecting the government covered during this period included: the fight against banditry,
construction of the Arror and Kimwarer dams, nominations by President Ruto of various individuals to various
positions, calls for dialogue between government and opposition, counselling and wellness desks in all Huduma
Centres, distribution of relief food and animal feed, distribution of semi-organic fertilizer, a privatisation bill, and
the state of prisons.”
Omwoyo has also lauded the media on remaining resilient amidst intimidation by the opposition who issued a boycott notice for some media houses and members of the public and the adverse effect of the protests including vandalisms of property and harassment to over 25 journalist.