The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has announced setting up a network of legal experts in media law to address critical shortages in expertise and defend freedom of expression and press freedom in the country.
MCK Director for media training and development, Victor Bwire said there is need for lawyers to stay updated on emerging issues shaping Kenya’s media landscape as the urge for urgent legal reforms to keep pace with rapid media developments and familiarize themselves with technology and internet governance laws.
“The Complaints Commission is mandated to tackle legal issues impacting media and journalists, and urged lawyers, particularly those in media houses, to stay abreast of emerging issues shaping Kenya’s media landscape, as some organizations have had to import lawyers for representation due to our local shortfall,” he stated.
Speaking on Monday, Media Law Association Chairperson Ibrahim Oduor called for the amendment of the Media Council Act 2013 to grant it constitutional commission status, ensuring its independence while clarifying the Complaints Commission’s functions.
“Amending the Act will ensure the independence of the Council as envisaged in the constitution while at the same time giving clarity to the functions of the Complaints Commission,” he advised.
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On his part, Alvin Kosgey of KMK Africa Advocates highlighted constitutional protections for journalism under Articles 31 and 34, voicing concerns about digital media laws and their enforcement.
“The rubber is meeting the road as we are now talking about whether the laws stipulated in the Constitution are sufficient in handling the wider media landscape in its current state,” noted Mr. Kosgey.
