The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has issued a directive that will see fraudsters impersonating as journalists face the full force of the law.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 27, MCK stated that all existing media accreditation cards will be recalled and new ones with key features issued to legitimate news men and women.
“New Press Cards to have additional features including a barcode and QR code that can be scanned using any smartphone,” MCK said in a statement.
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When journalists are accredited, it is easier for them to access the necessary information required in the gathering, production and dissemination of news by allowing participation in conferences, workshops, trainings and other gatherings.
MCK listed the following professionals who qualify for accreditation: Journalists working in media enterprises; Freelance journalists; Foreign journalists; Students pursuing media, journalism and communication studies; Public Relations Practitioners; Advertising Companies and Media Trainers.
All journalists seeking accreditation by the MCK, are required to provide a letter from the employer, an original degree or diploma certificate in communication from a recognized institution.