The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has urged journalists to prioritize their safety during this electioneering period.
MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire who spoke to journalists in Siaya County underscored the importance of journalists’ safety and security in enhancing mental wellness.
Bwire said journalists’ safety is a societal concern that affects how journalists report stories, adding that it has a huge impact on the accuracy, credibility, and objectivity of a story.
He urged journalists to avoid expressing their political preferences publicly, especially during this election period.
The MCK Director for Media Training and Development further cautioned them on the impact of social media on their safety and security as they may be exposed to cyber-attacks and cyberbullying.
“We have so far registered 23 cases of journalists’ harassment and assault. I urge journalists to be on a high alert,” said Bwire during training on responsible election reporting for journalists drawn from Siaya, Busia, Vihiga, and Kakamega Counties.
He also revealed that the recently launched intermedia safety charter will go a long way in protecting journalists, but said journalists also need to take their own security seriously.
The ongoing election reporting training, which targets 350 journalists in the first phase, is also taking place in Kilifi, Embu, and Uasin Gishu counties.
Another round of training is also being planned for Nyeri, Kisii, Garissa, Narok, and Makueni counties.
Training areas include safety and security of journalists, conflict-sensitive reporting, fake news, probable emergencies, and response options during elections.
The topics are critical in ensuring objective and conflict-sensitive reporting before, during, and after the August 9 General Election.