DPP commits to protect media freedom, rights of journalists

He committed to expedite cases facing journalists.

The statement comes days after media stakeholders criticised the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for not acting on cases involving journalists.

They said journalists face harassment, intimidation and physical attacks while carrying out their duty.

Kenya Union of Journalists Secretary General Eric Oduor called upon the government to protect the rights and freedom of journalists.

"Being a journalist is not a crime... we exist for the common good of society. So, we must call out the people who try to intimidate journalists through online and physical attacks," Oduor added

The DPP urged journalists to make good use of the Whistle-blower and Witness Protection Act.

"It is paramount that witnesses and whistle-blowers are effectively protected and not victimised so as to ensure quality prosecutions are undertaken, especially against individuals of interest in the society," he said.

The session explored the States obligation to protect the independent press, combat violence and impunity, and promote media independence, sustainability and diversity

In Kisumu, media stakeholders called for concerted efforts to end impunity meted out to journalists in their line of duty.

There were concerns journalists are subjected to various forms of threats.

Reports by the Ministry of Information indicate that 54 physical attacks have been reported this year.

Yesterday, the government debunked claims it is among those frustrating journalists.

Information Secretary in the Ministry of Information Communications and Digital Economy Judy Munyinyi said joint efforts by all stakeholders will find solutions to problems bedeviling the media industry.

Ms Munyinyi said the government was not an enemy of the media but their key ally.

"Government is not your enemy. Your enemy has changed, journalists must be aware of their environment. The era of chanting for your rights against the government is long gone because contrary to claims around, we want to ensure this sector is alive," she said.

She disputed claims by the media sector that the government was trying to kill the industry.

"Let us keep talking. We are your key ally. We must keep talking, so that we can find a balance and work together," she added.

Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Chief Executive Officer David Omwoyo called on the government and investigative agencies to speed up investigations into cases involving journalists.

Mr Omwoyo noted that some murder cases were pending four years later.

"We have 110 cases of attack reported this year alone. The attacks are by the police and public," he said.

Tabitha Ouya, the Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecution, asked MCK to invite prosecutors during media training to enlighten journalists on their rights.

She called for partnerships and collaborations so that issues in the media can be sorted out.

Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili challenged the Media Owners Association, MCK and KUJ to find urgent homegrown solutions to protect journalists.

"I know the above-mentioned organisations have stood with journalists during times of distress, but I think they should take the war nearer to the doorsteps of the government, especially the Ministry of Interior," he said.

Owili said that journalists through their umbrella bodies should demand an end to impunity in Kenya, Africa, and the world.

He argued that protecting journalists is protecting Kenyan rights.

"As the European Union says, democracy cannot work without free and independent media. However, I also read elsewhere that Kenya is not badly off on media freedom compared to other countries in Africa, but I leave this to the plenary," he added.

Christine Kuria, the deputy director of Katiba Institute, said Kenya is yet to fully comply with its obligations and commitments despite progressive constitutional protections, and threats against journalists and media.

"Arrests and prosecution of journalists and bloggers under restrictive national laws is testament to the disregard for the principles of the Constitution on restrictive limitation of fundamental rights and freedoms," she explained.