Nairobi: Supreme Court Judge Isaac Lenaola has called on journalists to exercise responsible reporting while upholding truth and national cohesion, warning that media narratives will play a decisive role in shaping Kenya’s peace ahead of future elections. Speaking during the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2026 at Strathmore University in Nairobi, Justice Lenaola underscored the immense influence of the media in a rapidly evolving information landscape dominated by social media and emerging technologies.
According to Kenya News Agency, Lenaola observed that journalists are the heartbeat of the nation, with every headline and breaking news alert shaping public perception. He urged journalists to remain accurate and measured in their reporting, warning that the widespread use of digital platforms has intensified the spread of misinformation. Noting that a majority of citizens now rely on social media for news consumption, he stressed the responsibility of the media to ensure accuracy without inflaming tensions.
Drawing from Kenya’s past electoral experiences, the judge emphasized the need for peace-sensitive journalism, particularly as the country approaches another electoral cycle. He stated that the national moment must remain one of truth, not fear, and that journalists must present facts in a way that informs the public while safeguarding unity. Justice Lenaola further challenged the media to adapt responsibly to technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, calling for ethical frameworks to guide their use.
Media Council of Kenya (MCK) Chairman Maina Muiruri echoed Lenaola’s call for a free and accountable press, describing media freedom as a cornerstone of democracy. Muiruri revealed that the Council had documented numerous cases of threats and violations against journalists in the past year, warning that such trends could escalate as the country moves closer to elections. He pointed to the growing use of coordinated intimidation tactics targeting media practitioners and highlighted the vulnerability of women and young journalists, who face disproportionate risks.
Kenya Editors’ Guild (KEG) President Zubeida Kananu stressed the importance of press freedom for a peaceful society. She likened journalism to a mirror reflecting society and cautioned against attempts to silence the media when uncomfortable truths emerge. Kananu revealed that more than 75 percent of journalists expected to cover upcoming elections would be doing so for the first time, many in environments where safety remains a major concern. She called for stronger protections, improved working conditions, and mental health support for journalists.
The event, organized by the Media Council of Kenya in partnership with Strathmore University and the Kenya Media Sector Working Group, was held under the theme ‘Shaping a Future at Peace’. It also featured the launch of the State of the Media 2025 Report, which assesses media performance and public perception in Kenya. Stakeholders from government, media, academia, civil society, and the technology sector attended the forum, focusing on the role of journalism in promoting accountability, countering misinformation, and fostering social cohesion.
As the country prepares for future elections amid a complex digital environment, speakers stressed that the role of the media will be pivotal in safeguarding democracy and national unity. The commemoration concluded with a unified call for collaboration across sectors, with leaders affirming that a peaceful future depends on a free, responsible, and fearless press committed to truth and public interest.
