Kenyan media outlets have confirmed the schedule for the 2022 presidential debates, set for July ahead of the August general election. The process involves collaboration with political parties and emphasizes impartiality.
Nation Media Group CEO Stephen Gitagama emphasized the media's commitment to delivering quality debates that will inform voters during the August polls. He stated that stakeholders are working with presidential candidates to secure their participation in the discussions.
"We have today launched a journey that will see the media play an important role in the upcoming elections," Gitagama said. "The platform is very important to the candidates. I remain optimistic that they will attend."
Kenya Editors Guild President Churchill Otieno highlighted the media's long-standing role in facilitating presidential debates, noting that the 2013 series marked the beginning of this tradition. He stressed that media organizations maintain neutrality, stating, "Media houses do not have preferred candidates in the upcoming election... they are in the hands of respectful professionals."
Omwoyo of the Media Council confirmed at least one presidential and one running mate debate will occur before the August vote. A secretariat led by Clifford Machoka, with support from Rosalia Omungo and Leo Mutisya, will oversee the process.
The 2017 presidential debate, which featured key political figures, remains a reference point for the current initiative. Media professionals were urged to maintain objectivity in their coverage.
