The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has emphasized the need for accurate information ahead of the 2027 General Election. MCK Chairman Maina Muiruri warned that gaps in information can fuel misinformation and undermine public trust. He made these remarks at the Information and Data for Accountability (IDUA) forum. Muiruri highlighted the challenges posed by digital platforms in the fight against misinformation.
Muiruri noted that digital platforms have created online echo chambers where misinformation spreads quickly. He stressed that these platforms reinforce existing beliefs rather than challenging them with facts. To combat this, Muiruri called on institutions to proactively disclose information, enabling citizens to verify claims against original sources. This, he believes, can limit the spread of falsehoods.
The MCK Chairperson urged stakeholders to expand access to information while maintaining its integrity. He encouraged citizens to approach the digital landscape with curiosity, question the information they encounter, and uphold the public's right to know. Muiruri's sentiments were echoed by the Registrar of Political Parties, John Cox Lorionokuo. Lorionokuo emphasized the importance of accurate and timely information in democratic governance.
Lorionokuo noted that access to reliable information is critical to democratic governance, service delivery, and public trust. He called for institutions to ensure that information is accurate, timely, and delivered through appropriate channels. The Registrar also stressed the need to package information in formats that are both accessible and comprehensible.
IEBC Chairman Erastus Ethekon also spoke at the forum, highlighting the importance of access to information during the electoral period. He recognized the right to access information, enabling Kenyans to make informed decisions during elections. Kenya Editors Guild President Zubeida Kananu echoed these sentiments, noting that access to information is not a favor from the government but a constitutional right.
Kananu emphasized that access to information is essential for verification and fact-checking. She noted that when credible information is missing, delayed, or difficult to access, an information vacuum is created. The Media Council of Kenya's call for accurate information aims to promote transparency and accountability ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The stakeholders at the forum agreed on the need for proactive measures to provide access to information as required by law. They emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional accountability and control measures for information management.
Key points
- The Media Council of Kenya urges institutions to proactively disclose information to combat misinformation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
- Access to reliable information is critical to democratic governance, service delivery, and public trust.
- Stakeholders emphasize the need for accurate, timely, and accessible information to enable informed decision-making during elections.
