Freedom Of The Press: Journalists In Kenya Advocate For Their Safety While Celebrating Milestones

KAJIADO,Kenya,Dec, 13 – As the country gears up for the 2022 General Election, Journalists in Kenya have called on the country’s security apparatus, the independent electoral and boundaries commission (IEBC) among other relevant stakeholders to ensure that their safety and security is guaranteed during the electioneering period.

Speaking during the prestigious annual Scribes End of Year Party in Kajiado county, the members of the fourth estate reiterated their right to inform the public, further insisting that as messengers, their noble duty is to simply highlight and report events as they unfold in the country – Condemning some from the political quarters who have meted violence and even issued threats at them.

This year’s event graced by nearly 200 journalists nationwide, was sponsored by Amnesty International and the Media Council of Kenya among others under the theme ‘Protection of Journalists for a Peaceful Election’. 

Amnesty International Kenya’s Ramadhan Rajab reiterated the need to protect journalists since the media plays a critical role in any democratic elections.

“As we head to elections, we will see more and more journalists facing threats from various political players. And that should not be allowed to happen.’ said Rajab.

During the event, journalists shared stories of resilience and triumph amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic where scores of scribes lost their jobs while others sadly lost their lives to the virus.

Journalists have been advocating for better working conditions, decent pay and timely access to medical services as some have been exposed to mental health issues while in the line of duty.

Acclaimed BBC journalist Ronclife Odit who is also the president of the Scribes 254 fraternity said that the annual event has provided a great platform for journalists to network, share milestones in their careers as well as simply unwind.

“Our jobs can become very stressful, and such events offer a relief for us as we gear towards the next year,’ said Odit.

“Last year was a tough year, this year has equally been tough but we can see things getting back to normal slowly but surely,” said Edwin Obuya, Senior journalist Citizen TV and Radio Citizen.

“We want to tell journalist not to lose hope, there is a bright future ahead and by believing in God and working hard will believe things will get back to the way they were or even far much better,” said Juma Namlola, Senior News Editor Taifa Leo.

At the event later characterised by great music and food, senior reporter and News Editor at Mbaitu FM Terry Nzau was recognized as the most outstanding journalist of 2021.

Scribes Kenya is the first digital platform bringing together over 250 journalists assembled from print, television, radio, online platforms across the country.

The Network which is a hotbed of brilliant and acclaimed journalists and communication and PR experts nationwide has enabled collaboration in various fields as well serving as a platform that promotes and encourages freedom of the press and peer review amongst colleagues.