KENYA MEDIA SECTOR WORKING GROUP PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Kenya Media Sector Working Group Recognizes Kenyans led by Gen-Zs Call for Change and Commits to Accurate Reporting, National Dialogue and protection of freedom of expression.
Nairobi, July 8, 2024 – The recent protests led by Kenya’s Gen-Z have ignited a critical national conversation. The Kenya Media Sector Working Group (KMSWG) acknowledges the courage and determination of these young Kenyans who have brought pressing issues to the forefront of public discourse. Their voices demand respectful and genuine attention from those in authority. All leaders, from national to local levels, have a duty to be accountable to the people they serve and ensure that this debate progresses constructively, without harm to the people or the nation.
The KMSWG commends the Government for withdrawing the Finance Bill (2024) in response to the protests. This concession demonstrates a willingness to listen and adapt. However, the underlying issues remain. [Kenyans led by the Gen-Zs have highlighted a wide range of concerns, from economic hardship and youth unemployment to educational challenges and the need for good governance. We have seen encouraging signs of commitment that the media remains open to the Government to pursue matters of national development, and for constructive engagement and dialogue. While the tragic loss of life during the protests must never be forgotten, these events underscore the urgency of the moment, and the need to comprehensively and sustainably address the issues.
The KMSWG recognizes the frustration felt by young Kenyans such as unemployment, bureaucratic hurdles in accessing critical public services such as IDs cards, passports, and HELB (Higher Education Loans Board) funding, the difficult environment of doing business among others. We understand the sense of powerlessness and the yearning for a more equitable and transparent Kenya. KMSWG empathizes with the Gen-Z and acknowledges the legitimacy of their demands.
We acknowledge and are encouraged by the Government’s initial gestures of listening and willingness to engage with Gen-Zs and the public. We are aware that young people comprise a huge majority of our population today, and indeed have a huge stake on our nation’s future. The KMSWG stands ready to facilitate genuine and transparent engagement on the key issues already put on the table. Open dialogue is essential for finding solutions, and the media will play a crucial role in fostering this exchange.
Kenya has a proud tradition of upholding freedom of expression, a hallowed right enshrined in our Constitution. This right allows citizens to peacefully assemble and express their grievances. The KMSWG condemns the brutal response to peaceful protests that resulted in deaths and injuries of Kenyans and journalists. We equally condemn attacks on press freedom though direct threats of shutdown to media organizations. A thorough and independent investigation must be conducted to hold those responsible accountable.
Moving forward, the KMSWG underscores the media’s vital role in this national conversation. We are committed to providing accurate, balanced, and responsible reporting that reflects the diverse perspectives within Kenyan society. We recognize that the recent protests were decentralized, and without leadership or spokespersons in the traditional fashion. However, we are dedicated to continually engaging this critical segment of our society through in-depth, clear, and comprehensive coverage of their vision for Kenya.
We will shortly announce a comprehensive plan to develop a platform where Kenyans including Gen-Zs will engage on critical issues affecting the nation.
The KMSWG believes that a strong and independent media is essential for a healthy democracy. We are committed to working with Gen-Z, the government, and all Kenyans to ensure our media continues to be a credible source of information, a platform for diverse voices, and a force for positive societal change. Together, we can build a better future for Kenya.
About KMSWG
The Kenya Media Sector Working Group (KMSWG) is a coalition of media stakeholders and associations in Kenya. The coalition is committed to the advancement of democratic principles, especially freedom of the media and expression.
KMSWG Convenors
Mr Erick Oduor, SG, Kenya Union of Journalists info@kuj.or.ke
Ms Rosalia Omungo, CEO, Kenya Editors Guild ceo@kenyaeditorsguild.org
