Statement on Media Shutdown in the Country

Kenya Association of Manufacturers denounces the shutdown of media channels and recent actions to curtail media freedom and freedom of expression in the country.

Our constitution protects this freedom in Article 34 (2) (a), which affirms that the State shall not exercise control over or interfere with any person engaged in broadcasting, the production or circulation of any publication or the dissemination of information by any medium. In addition, part (b) adds that the state shall not penalize any person for any opinion or view or the content of any broadcast, publication or dissemination.

The freedom of the media to make editorial decisions without undue influence is essential. It is rooted in our country’s commitment to the Rule of Law and a free press. Moreover, it is affirmed by the courts. The role of free media in a thriving democracy is critical to a country’s overall development.

In the same breath, KAM prevails upon the media fraternity to uphold integrity and accuracy in their pursuit of facts about issues promoting, above all else, the common good and the unity of our Nation.

It is critical that all stakeholders are united in safeguarding the democracy of this country in order to achieve our shared goals.