NAIROBI, Kenya — The Media Council of Kenya has formally encouraged journalists, editors, and media practitioners to contest elective positions in the 2027 General Election while promising stricter safeguards to protect journalistic integrity and fairness during the electoral period.
In a statement issued on Friday, the council said Kenya’s leadership would benefit from greater participation of professionals from diverse sectors, including the media industry.
“The Council believes that in the same way the legislative and executive arms of governance benefit from the diverse expertise from professionals from other sectors, including law, engineering, and medicine, national leadership thrives on multi-sectoral representation,” the statement read.
MCK Announces Support Programme for Media Aspirants
The council revealed that it is designing a Special Governance Support Programme aimed at equipping journalists seeking political office with leadership and policy skills needed to run campaigns effectively.
Media practitioners intending to vie for political positions have been asked to formally register their intentions with the council through official communication channels.
The move comes as political activity begins to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with several media personalities already rumoured to be considering elective seats.
New Rules Planned to Prevent Conflict of Interest
While backing journalists’ political participation, MCK emphasised that media practitioners occupy a uniquely influential position in society because they shape public narratives and political discourse.
“Unlike other professionals, journalists and media practitioners control the very platforms, airwaves, and narratives that shape public opinion and political discourse,” the council stated.
The regulator said this influence requires stricter ethical safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure fairness for all political candidates.
As part of the reforms, MCK announced it is finalising comprehensive Guidelines on Media Conduct and Reporting for the 2027 General Election.
Mandatory Resignation Timelines Proposed
According to the council, the planned guidelines will introduce mandatory resignation timelines for journalists who declare political ambitions.
The rules will also require immediate suspension from live hosting, anchoring, and reporting duties once a media practitioner publicly declares political intentions.
Additionally, media houses will be required to guarantee balanced and fair coverage to all political contestants without favouring former journalists entering politics.
The council said the measures are aimed at protecting public trust in the media industry during the election period.
Editorial Leaders to Review Draft Guidelines
MCK announced that it will convene a validation workshop involving editorial leadership within the next 14 days to review and refine the proposed protocols.
The final guidelines are expected to be officially launched and gazetted within 30 days.
The council reiterated that it remains committed to safeguarding media freedom while promoting responsible journalism and democratic participation.
