National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on
journalists covering parliamentary proceedings to remain factual, objective and
authentic in their reporting.
Speaking during a consultative meeting with the new
leadership of the Kenya Parliamentary Journalists Association (KPJA),
Wetang’ula emphasised the media’s critical role in advancing the legislature’s
mandate of lawmaking, oversight and representation.
Wetang’ula, who also serves as the patron of KPJA, said that
journalists are an essential bridge between Parliament and the public.
He noted that accurate and responsible reporting helps
enhance public understanding of parliamentary processes and builds trust in
democratic institutions.
“Media is a critical stakeholder in advancing Parliament’s
agenda. I urge you to read, research and ensure accurate coverage of
parliamentary work while upholding the highest levels of professionalism,”
Wetang’ula told the journalists.
He dismissed perceptions of hostility between Parliament and
the media, stating that the institution does not view the Fourth Estate as
adversarial but as a partner in public information and civic education.
During the meeting, held at Parliament Buildings, Wetang’ula
assured the journalists of his commitment to improving their working environment.
He announced plans to construct a modern, fully equipped
media centre within Parliament to support their news-gathering operations.
He also pledged to facilitate training opportunities to
enhance journalists’ skills and professional growth.
Wetang’ula said he looks forward to further discussions with
KPJA members during an upcoming retreat in Mombasa, where more comprehensive
engagements on collaboration, capacity building and media relations will take
place.
KPJA Chairman Moses Aliwa welcomed the Speaker’s commitment,
noting that Parliament’s leadership has been responsive to many of the
association’s concerns.
“The leadership of Parliament has been gracious and has
responded to a number of our concerns; some remain work in progress. We need
more clarity on access and in-camera proceedings. I also vouched for training
for KPJA members to enhance coverage of Parliament,” Aliwa said.
He thanked Wetang’ula for his continued support and
guidance, saying the association is committed to strengthening relations
between the press and Parliament.
“Thank you, Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, for your continued
patronage and invaluable counsel on Press-Bunge relations. On behalf of the
KPJA, we are truly grateful. We are excited to build on this foundation and
bring even more vibrancy to our work in serving the public,” he added.
The meeting was attended by key parliamentary officials,
including Clerk of the National Assembly Samuel Njoroge, Director in the
Speaker’s Office Stephen Apopo and Chief of Staff Benson Milimo.
The new KPJA leadership present at the meeting included Vice President Irene Mwangi, Treasurer Elizabeth Mutuku, Secretary General
Edwin Obuya, Deputy Secretary General Collins Omulo, Organising Secretary
Emmanuel Too and Liaison Officer Josphat Thiongo.
Wetang’ula reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to supporting
journalists, saying their role in informing citizens is vital to strengthening
transparency and accountability in governance.
