The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned a public fight involving three journalists during an event in Siaya County on Sunday, January 20.
In a statement on January 23, the Council said the conduct by The Star newspaper’s Josiah Odanga, K24’s Mary Goretty Juma and George Amolo of Royal Media Services is unacceptable and undermines the public’s trust in the media and the critical role of journalists in the society.
“The Council unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, including those perpetrated by members of the press against their own or on members of the public.
Journalists resorting to physical fights and engaging in slander not only jeopardizes their professional credibility but also undermines the principles of responsible journalism,” read the statement.
MCK to Journalists & Media Houses
MCK directed journalists to conduct themselves with integrity and decorum, even in the face of aggression.
The Council encouraged all journalists to uphold their commitment to truth, accuracy, and objectivity, and to prioritize respectful dialogue and constructive criticism over personal attacks or violence.
“The Council is ready to offer its support and assistance to the journalists involved in this incident. We encourage them to seek mediation or other forms of conflict resolution to address the underlying issues and prevent future violence,” read another part of the statement.
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Further, MCK urged media houses to stop publishing one-sided stories written by their respective employees as this causes more confusion and veils facts during a conflict.
The Council pledged to work with all stakeholders to create a more respectful and collaborative media environment.
“We believe that journalists can, and should, work together to hold power to account, inform the public and contribute to a better society,” continued the statement.
Violent Journalist to be Deregistered
MCK noted that it had already investigated the incident and urged the relevant media organizations to equally undertake a comprehensive investigation and take appropriate disciplinary action against those involved.
Besides, the Council said accredited journalists engaged in such altercations risk losing their registration with the Council.
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“We also confirm that the three journalists are fully accredited by the Media Council of Kenya and are free and should be enabled to work in any part of Kenya irrespective of their place of origin,” read another part of the statement.
The Council further said it believes in upholding the highest ethical standards within the journalism profession including addressing internal conflicts in a professional and constructive manner.
