The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has raised concerns over a recent story published by the Standard Group on former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju’s abduction.
In a statement issued to the press on Tuesday, the MCK criticized the media house over its front-page headline on Tuju’s abduction, citing that there was no confirmed information to warrant such a headline.
MCK claimed that the story was misleading, especially considering that Tuju was later found safe and sound.
The media regulator further claimed that such reporting could cause unnecessary alarm and might put people’s lives in danger.
MCK also criticized an editorial piece that was published in response to the story, saying it was an admission of a mistake but lacked an apology and a retraction.
According to MCK, this is not an isolated case, and they have noted a pattern where the media house makes bold claims without fact-checking.
It cautioned that such reporting, which is often done to attract attention, is likely to undermine trust between the media and the public.
MCK also reminded media houses that accuracy should always be a priority, even in fast-moving and sensitive reporting.
The council also addressed the issue of interference with media freedom, stating that their role is to ensure that journalists are adhering to their profession.
The council stated that holding media houses accountable is not censorship, but rather protecting the industry from losing its integrity.
On the other hand, MCK stated that journalists should be aware that failure to adhere to simple ethics like verifying facts will attract problems from the law and external forces.
The council has now asked the Standard Group to return to proper journalism practices, including verifying facts and giving all sides a chance to respond before publishing.
MCK stated that they will continue advocating for responsible reporting, stating that Kenyans are entitled to news that is not only true but also reliable.
