The Kenya Media Sector Working Group(KMSWG) has said the recent attacks on the media are an attempt to divert public attention, from the widespread mismanagement of public funds and other governance challenges facing the new administration.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, KMSWG led by Kenya Union of Journalists secretary general, Eric Oduor said the government should instead address the concerns over the management of the National Health Insurance Fund(NHIF).
He said the NHIF issue that has made it uneasy to serve Kenyans should, be the main state's agenda instead of hurling attacks at the media.
This comes days after Health Cabinet Secretary, Susan Wafula Nakumicha suspended eight NHIF branch managers accused of using underhand tactics to fleece Kenyans.
"The most recent attacks have been triggered by an expose of corruption in government and other stories projecting voices demanding accountability on the part of the government," Oduor said.
Oduor said Kenyans want to hear from the government on the measures they have taken to deal with the graft allegations.
"We all know there was the issue of the diversion of the condemned sugar into the market. Not also forgetting the Kemsa scandal. We need answers to know how far they have reached with the investigations and the measures they have taken," Oduor said.
The stakeholders also demanded answers regarding the repackaging and sale of subsidised fertiliser.
However, a few weeks ago, four suspects were arrested after being found repackaging government fertiliser meant for subsidy along Nanyuki road in Lunga Lunga Nairobi.
The KUJ secretary general further said the government needs to come out clear on what is happening in Shakahola.
"We want to know what exactly is taking place in Shakahola and the investigations that the government has been carrying. Instead, they have just been telling Kenyans about the number of people rescued and bodies exhumed," Oduor said.
Oduor also touched on the issue of the journalists who were attacked and sustained injuries during the Azimio la Umoja protests.
"Up to date, many journalists who were attacked and injured during the protests have not been accounted for. We want to know the steps that the state has taken since they said they were conducting a probe on those who were attacking journalists," he said.
On the other hand, they urged the government to stop intimidating the media and instead work on handling the alleged scandals and ensuring investigations are carried out.
"We urge the government to stop intimidating the media and focus on the concerns by Kenyans on the scandals exposed in the country," they said.
They noted that as a sacred responsibility of the media, they will, however, continue without fear to report on public issues as well as to speak truth to power.
"It is for this reason that we affirm our loyalty and commitment to the people of Kenya whom we serve," he said.
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