We won't gag the media - ICT CS Owalo

The ICT Cabinet Secretary said the government holds dear the safety of journalists

In Summary
  • November 2 is the World International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
  • The day is being marked against the backdrop of continued media risks and threats to journalists across the world.
Former ICT CS Joe Mucheru officially hands over the office to CS Eliud Owalo
Former ICT CS Joe Mucheru officially hands over the office to CS Eliud Owalo
Image: ELIUD OWALO/TWTTER

 

 

Information, Communication and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo has assured journalists of their safety and space under the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The CS spoke on Wednesday as the world marked the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.

Owalo said President William Ruto's government will continue to guarantee the media their freedom and ensure the safety of journalists.

Owalo, however, raised concerns over the rising cases of crimes against journalists.

The media,he said, plays an integral part in shaping opinions of public concern hence should be allowed to operate freely.

"We hold media freedom dear to our hearts and we will do everything possible to ensure media freedom is guaranteed," he said.

The government, he noted, does not believe in gagging media.

He also disclosed that he will soon be constituting the board of the Media Council of Kenya while affirming his plans to revamp the state broadcaster KBC and the Kenya News Agency.

With regard to the murder of the Pakistani journalist, the CS said the investigations are ongoing.

He said the matter was being handled by the ministry of Interior.

"I know we have a duty in communicating the government's position on crucial matters of public concern but we shall be issuing a statement in due course...it is in a critical level now," he noted.

Present during the function were members of the civil society groups and partner missions and institutions.

 

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