Efforts by MPs to strangle media freedom is aimed at curtailing expression.

It is sad that we are on the brink of returning to the authoritarian and draconian governance of past regimes.

Media freedom helps to foster democracy, just governance and accountability. The deeply rooted corruption in all sectors of Government can only be checked by the media.

Media freedom has brought positive results, some of which are available in our national archives.

Such freedoms can be traced back to the time of Jesus.

Inspired freelance writers like Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul and others were not hindered from reporting what they knew of Jesus. They even reported his resurrection, which the leaders bitterly opposed.

These freelance writings are part of what was canonised as the New Testament that is the central focus of present day Christian beliefs.

Mr President, you started well with the assurance of liberating Kenyans from the abuse of human rights. Do not undo the good work you have done.

Charles Nyangia, Oyugis

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Recent events are disturbing. The Communication Bill awaiting presidential assent should be treated with the contempt it deserves.

The manner in which Parliament voted for the Bill leaves a lot to be desired and shows the kind of leaders we have.

No wonder they have refused to pay taxes yet they earn mind boggling salaries that put what their colleagues in the developed nations earn to shame.

Why should the Government be in a rush to pass a draconian Bill into law? Media freedom and access to information are hallmarks of democracy in developed countries.

The Government should not regulate, control and censor the Press. To do so is to go against the spirit of Press freedom spelt out in the UN Treaty (Article 19). It mandates governments to unconditionally respect the right of their citizens to information.

The contested Communication Bill is misguided and misplaced and has come at a bad time. We are not yet out of the woods after last year’s election debacle.

The negative publicity we received in the local and international Press is still fresh. What does Information and Communication Minister Samuel Poghisio intend to achieve with such a law?

How will he regulate the electronic media? Technological advances makes it possible to broadcast from the ‘clouds’’. This makes it possible for one to listen to the radio or watch television on the Internet.

How will he regulate Internet-based broadcasts?

Andrew Musungu, via e-mail

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The move by Parliament to muzzle the media should be condemned in the strongest terms possible.

Kenya is a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Article 19 of the Charter stipulates that: "Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression. This right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.’’

My plea to President Kibaki is that he should not assent to this Bill.

Edwin Mulochi, Nairobi.

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