In a stern message, the Media Council of Kenya has put unaccredited journalists on notice, urging them to legitimize their status or potentially face legal repercussions.
David Omwoyo, the Chief Executive Officer of the council, emphasized the serious consequences for individuals practicing journalism without proper accreditation. Not only would they be barred from engaging in the profession, but they would also forfeit numerous privileges reserved for accredited journalists.
The official launch of the Siaya Press Club took place in Siaya town, with the presence of prominent figures like Governor James Orengo and County Commissioner Jim Njoka. David Omwoyo used the occasion to convey the council’s warning to those flouting accreditation requirements.
“It is illegal to purport to practice journalism in Kenya without accreditation,” Omwoyo declared. He went on to emphasize that unaccredited journalists would be denied various benefits, including access to training programs, story writing grants provided by the Media Council, and protection of press freedom.
Omwoyo urged journalists to adhere to fundamental principles, such as accuracy, transparency, truthfulness, and a commitment to the principle of ‘do no harm.’
He also underscored the Media Council’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of journalists, pointing out that such protection ultimately benefits all Kenyan citizens.
Recognizing the formation of the Siaya Press Club by local journalists, Omwoyo pledged support to help transform the club into a hub for information and media development.
County Commissioner Jim Njoka commended the cooperative relationship between local media and the government. He encouraged journalists to utilize the newly formed press club as a platform for constructive criticism and professional development.
Njoka further appealed to journalists to adopt a patriotic stance and actively highlight the positive initiatives undertaken by the government.
“You need to be balanced and patriotic. Acknowledge the positive actions of the government and also point out areas where the government should focus its attention,” Njoka stressed.
Governor James Orengo spoke passionately about the importance of safeguarding the constitutional freedoms enshrined for the media. He highlighted that these freedoms were not granted casually but were the result of hard-fought battles by the media fraternity.
Orengo also pledged to streamline his government to ensure easier access to information for both journalists and the public.
The launch of the Siaya Press Club drew the participation of distinguished figures, including former government spokesman Colonel (retired) Cyrus Oguna, Kenya National Union of Teachers Siaya branch executive secretary Alex Dunga, club chairman Philip Onyango, and MCK director Victor Bwire, among others.
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