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 was speaking 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 called on institutions to proactively disclose information to enable citizens to verify claims against original sources. This, he believes, will limit the spread of falsehoods. Muiruri also urged stakeholders to expand access to information while maintaining integrity.
The MCK Chairperson stressed the importance of approaching the digital landscape with curiosity and questioning what is encountered. He emphasized the need to uphold the public's right to know. Registrar of Political Parties, John Cox Lorionokuo, also spoke at the forum. He noted that institutions responsible for informing and educating Kenyans must ensure information is accurate, timely and delivered through appropriate channels.
Lorionokuo emphasized that access to reliable information is critical to democratic governance, service delivery and public trust. He called for the need to package information in formats that are both accessible and comprehensible. The Registrar also stressed the importance of strengthening institutional accountability and control measures for information management.
IEBC Chairman Erastus Ethekon also spoke at the forum. He noted that access to information will be important in enabling Kenyans to make informed decisions during the electoral period. Ethekon recognized the right to access information, which will allow Kenyans to make objective decisions during elections.
Kenya Editors Guild President Zubeida Kananu emphasized that access to information is not a favor from the government but a constitutional right. She noted that when credible information is missing, delayed or difficult to access, an information vacuum is created. Kananu also highlighted the importance of access to information for verification and fact-checking.
The Media Council of Kenya's call for accurate information ahead of the 2027 General Election is a timely reminder of the importance of reliable information in democratic governance. The council's efforts to promote access to information and combat misinformation are crucial in ensuring that Kenyans make informed decisions during elections.
Key points
- Media Council of Kenya urges accurate information ahead of 2027 General Election
- Access to reliable information critical to democratic governance and public trust
- Institutions must proactively disclose information to combat misinformation
