Kenya marks World Press Freedom day

The country has today (Tuesday) joined the whole world in commemorating Press Freedom Day amid concerns over an increasingly hostile operating environment for journalists.

The event conducted by Media Council of Kenya at a city hotel was aimed at not only celebrating freedom of the Kenyan media, but also scribes who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Speaking at the event, Media Council of CEO Haron Mwangi stressed the importance of an Independent media in fostering the country’s democracy and good governance.

He said it is unacceptable that there have been 24 cases of intimidation and harassment of journalists, 14 for speaking and writing about uncomfortable truths and corruption reported in Kenya

He said ownership of media houses by politicians has altered the ethics and standards of responsible journalism in the country.

Linus Kaikai, representing the Editors Guild, however lamented that Journalists in the country still face harassment and intimidation as they perform their duties.

In November last year, John Ngirachu, a Daily Nation news reporter was arrested for reporting on procurement by the Interior Ministry based and Alphonce Shiundu, a Standard Newspaper reporter, was also arrested in a crackdown on reporters

Kaikai said these events should serve as a reminder to the media that old habits die hard and that freedom of the press remains a journey and not a destination.