The Media Council of Kenya has condemned an incident in Siaya where three journalists were involved in a scuffle resulting in injuries on Saturday.
In a statement on Tuesday, MCK CEO David Omwoyo termed the incident unacceptable and one that undermines public trust in the media.
He called on the journalists involved in the melee to embrace mediation in resolving their differences and desist from engaging in violent conduct in the future lest they lose their accreditation.
“The council is ready to offer its support and assistance to the journalists involved in this incident. We encourage them to seek mediation or other forms of conflict resolution to address the underlying issues and prevent future violence,” Omwoyo said.
On Saturday, January 20, The Star correspondent Josiah Odanga, K24’s Mary Goretty and George Amolo of Royal Media Services were involved in a scuffle during an event at Karariw Primary School, where local MP Elisha Odhiambo was distributing bursary cheques to needy students.
Odanga sustained head injuries and was taken to Siaya County Referral Hospital while bleeding from the head.
The three allegedly differed over the right to cover the event with Odanga claiming his colleagues were unhappy with his presence because he was an ‘outsider’.
“The council has already investigated the incident and urges the relevant media organisations to equally undertake a comprehensive investigation and take appropriate disciplinary action against those involved,” Omwoyo said.
“We also confirm that the three journalists are accredited by the Media Council of Kenya and are free and should be enabled to work in any part of Kenya irrespective of their place of origin.”
The MCK boss reminded journalists to conduct themselves with decorum, uphold a commitment to the truth, accuracy and objectivity and prioritise respectful dialogue over violence even in the face of aggression.
He said while working to hold power to account and to inform the public, journalists should at all times uphold high ethical standards, including addressing internal conflicts professionally.
“Journalists resorting to physical fights and engaging in slander not only jeopardises their professional credibility but also undermines the principles of responsible journalism.”
Omwoyo said going forward, the council will continue working with all stakeholders in creating a more respectful and collaborative media environment that contributes to a better society.