This archive report was first published on 3 May 2021.
Today, May 3, 2021, marks the World Press Freedom Day, a day to celebrate the importance of a free and independent press in promoting democracy and good governance. The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) is honored to anchor the celebrations in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme 'Information as a Public Good'.
The celebrations come at a time when the world media family is facing numerous challenges that must be overcome to achieve media independence. Africa remains a region where media freedom and independence are still a work in progress, with Kenya being the leading light in showing the way to freedom of the press.
The Windhoek Declaration, drawn in 1991, played a significant role in shaping the idea of cementing media freedom in the world. The Declaration emphasized the need for a free and independent press, identified as essential for democratic and national development. It also highlighted the right of access to information, which is the foundation of today's theme.
The Kenyan Constitution's Articles 33, 34, and 35 underscore the spirit of a free and independent press, which is also reflected in the Open Government Partnership and the Access to Information Act 2016. These laws give every citizen the right to freedom of expression, including the right to seek, receive, or impart information or ideas.
However, despite these developments, Kenya still retains laws that restrict speech, such as the Books and Newspapers Act, the Defamation Act, the Official Secrets Act, and the Preservation of Public Security Act. These laws must be recast for review to achieve progress in media freedom.
The Media Council of Kenya, jointly with stakeholders, has engaged with the ICT ministry, Parliament, and other industry players to recommend several legal and policy reviews to improve the working environment for the media. Among the recommendations is the development of a comprehensive media policy for the country and the review of several Acts, including the MCK, KICA, KBC, and Defamation.
By taking these steps, Kenya can move towards realizing the vision of 'Information as a Public Good' and promoting a free, independent, and pluralistic media environment.
— Maina Muiruri, Chairman, Media Council of Kenya
