This archive report was first published on 20 August 2019.
August 20, 2019
The Kenyan media has emerged as a crucial player in shaping the country's politics, with its influence expected to grow even more significant as the 2022 elections approach.
Politicians have been known to sponsor friendly headlines in newspapers to sway public opinion and influence the political debate. A notable example is the Sunday Nation's headline, which was allegedly sponsored by Annex to draw ODM leader Raila Odinga into the 2022 debate. However, the story failed to achieve its intended purpose due to a timely response from Capitol Hill.
Kenyan citizens have come to regard the media as a source of truth, which is why politicians often take issue with misleading headlines that can harm their political arithmetic or personal reputation. Deputy President William Ruto has been at odds with several media houses, accusing them of spreading false information on multiple occasions.
However, as a seasoned politician, Ruto has learned to adapt and has reportedly planted his own reporters in media houses to write articles that boost his bid and trash his opponents. This move is seen as a strategic attempt to counter negative stories that can harm his reputation and create discord within his Jubilee Party.
The world of politics is known for its cutthroat tactics, and the media has become a valuable tool for politicians to gain an upper hand. It is alleged that media houses such as The Standard, Nation Media Group, and Royal Media Services have a bias towards President Uhuru Kenyatta and Raila Odinga. On the other hand, DP William Ruto has been rumored to have acquired shares in Mediamax, a media house owned by President Kenyatta, giving him a partial ownership stake.
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