By JOHN OYWA
Press freedom in Kenya came under the microscope amid calls to local journalists to jealously guard the democratic space created by the new Constitution.
In speeches marking the sixth anniversary since goons raided the Standard Group in one of the worst media attacks in Kenya’s history, leading personalities said the media was not out of the woods yet, despite gains already made.
The Group’s Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Paul Melly, Senior Counsel Paul Muite and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Chairman Isaack Hassan told journalists that the destiny of the media industry lay on its integrity, self regulation and constant check on the Government.
"You have made some gains in press freedom, but you are not out of the woods yet. Some anti-reform agents may still turn back the clock," Mr Muite told journalists assembled at The Standard Group Centre on Mombasa Road Friday.
He added: "I am asking the media to be careful with the Bills on Press Freedom because they may be diluted. You must ensure Article 34 on Media Freedom and Article 35 on access to information are not interfered with."
Mr Melly said the media must exhibit and maintain integrity, objectivity and play a role as the people’s watchdog as the country edged closer to the next General Election.
"As we commemorate the darkest day in our history, I want to tell the media to exhibit values that are key in defending press freedom," said Melly.
He added: "Journalists must free themselves from influence and remain focused. They must remain passionate in what they are doing and resolve never to be afraid of standing with the public."
Group Chief Editor John Bundotich said the media house had a strong resolve to continue advocating and defending press freedom, adding that while there was gradual progress in that regard, much remains to be done.
"We still have unfinished business that includes enactment of media laws to give effect to the provisions of the Constitution and access to information," he said.
Bundotich reiterated that the media house’s channels would continue to be independent of any vested interests, and in a balanced and fair manner.
Melly said the media house would invest huge resources in ensuring a fair and comprehensive coverage of the coming elections.
"We want to set the agenda. We want to spend resources in telling Kenyans about the presidential candidates and what they stand for because the public has to know their policies," he said.
Melly caused laughter when he said that the Standard had established itself as a melting pot of media talent and the envy of many competitors scrambling to poach some of the mentored professionals.
Mr Hassan agreed with him, saying the Standard Group was indeed a premier media company in the country.
Hassan, however, asked the media to help the country conduct free and fair elections through fair and sober reportage.
"You are the watchdog. Please help us help the people know the candidates gunning for State House," he said.
On the infamous raid six years ago, Muite said it was high time the Government acted on a Parliamentary report that recommended action against certain individuals who masterminded the raid. During the raid, KTN was put off air and vital equipment damaged by armed agents. The Standard press was cannibalised and the day’s newspapers set ablaze.
"I chaired the parliamentary committee that probed the raid and I will stand by the Standard Group until the truth is established," said Muite.
