Cover polls fairly and accurately, Chebukati tells media practitioners

Electoral commission chairman Wafula Chebukati 

Electoral commission chairman Wafula Chebukati has called on the media to cover the August 8 elections credibly and accurately.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) boss spoke in his office in Nairobi as Kenya joined the rest of the world to mark World Press Freedom Day.

"On this World Press Freedom Day, we are reminded of the important role the media play and this year's theme aptly captures the message of peace as we approach the elections," Mr Chebukati said.

He added that IEBC was aware that the media were essential to the electoral process.

"A free and fair election is not only about the freedom to vote and the knowledge of how to cast a vote, but also about a participatory process where voters engage in public debate and have adequate information about political parties, policies... to make informed choices."

He said recent times have seen the definition of media broaden from the traditional electronic and print media to encompass new media that include online journalism and social media.

"Citizen journalism continues to gather momentum, permeating even countries perceived as having strict regulations. A prime concern of media coverage during elections is the right of voters to full and accurate information and their right to participate in debate."

Chebukati said the IEBC was determined to ensure that information during this election period was credible and accurate.