OPINION: Is media forcing an agenda on Kenyans?

Freedom of expression is good and having a free Press is great, but having a Press which shares information in a balanced and responsible manner is even greater. The media play an important role in highlighting issues to the public and shaping opinion.

But sometimes the media can play the devil‘s advocate, holding our leaders to account for their misdeeds, real or imagined.

On the other hand, the Press is known to court trouble creating imaginary enmity between adversaries, and fanning flames even where the smoke has yet to light up.

With the stroke of a pen the Press can foment civil unrest and political instability.

The media should not give our politicians free advertising space and unwarranted political mileage.

Since independence, Kenya‘s ruling class continues to play mind games at the expense of mwananchi.

The media should give coverage to more important issues affecting Kenyans. We are still smarting from the horror of terrorist attacks, our tourism industry is on its knees and inflation has eroded most of our disposable income.

Let the media highlight this daily.

Joe Musyoki, Kitengela