Media supremo Sam Shollei lauds judgement by Supreme Court on digital migration

The Standard Group Chief Executive Sam Shollei, who is also the chairman of Media Owners Association, has lauded the decision by the Supreme Court to extend the digital migration deadline by 90 days.

This, he said, will give all stakeholders time to come up with a way forward that is favourable to the public, media owners and investors.

"The structure of digital migration, in itself, amounts to interference of the establishment of media and therefore violates the Constitution," he said moments after the Supreme Court delivered its judgement.

Broadcast frequencies, he emphasised, should be in the hands of Kenyans.

"It is not envisaged anywhere in the world that the media industry should be handed over to foreign entities," he said.

The Standard Group boss termed the move to challenge digital migration as a first call to the battle for the freedom of the establishment of broadcast media.

He said media owners would aggressively engage the Communications Authority of Kenya to strike a deal that will be favourable for all stakeholders.

"The Supreme Court has spoken and it is the highest court in the land and its decision must be respected by all Kenyans. Kenyans have to make a choice about issues that affect them and their assets," he said.

His sentiments were supported by lawyer Paul Muite for media houses who emphasised that the whole process should favour Kenyans.

"The Supreme Court was very specific about the citizens. The court was especially particular that the set-top boxes should be affordable," Muite said.

He lauded the court's decision and pointed out that the CAK will now be required to consult major stakeholders before making a decision on issuance of licences.